Stevenage Smoke Control Area
What you need to know
Most of Stevenage is designated as a Smoke Control Area (SCA). This means there are legal restrictions on what you can burn at home to help reduce air pollution and protect public health.
This page outlines the key rules, your responsibilities, and the consequences of non-compliance.
What is a Smoke Control Area?
A Smoke Control Area is a legally defined zone where it is an offence to emit smoke from a chimney unless you’re burning authorised fuel, or using a Defra-approved appliance. These rules apply to homes, businesses, and other premises with chimneys.
You can find national guidance on SCAs on the UK Government’s official webpage.
What you can burn
In Stevenage’s SCA, you may only:
- Burn authorised fuels such as anthracite, semi-anthracite, or low volatile steam coal.
- Use Defra-exempt appliances (for example, certain stoves or boilers) to burn unauthorised fuels like wood—only if the appliance is certified and used according to manufacturer instructions.
Exempt Appliances – Clean Air Act Data Entry System
Outdoor barbecues, Chimeneas, and pizza ovens are allowed, but the same SCA rules apply if they use a chimney connected to a building.
Consequences of non-compliance
Failure to comply with SCA rules may result in:
- A penalty of up to £300 for emitting smoke from a chimney.
- A fine of up to £1,000 for buying unauthorised fuel for use in a non-approved appliance.
Resources and further information
DEFRA Leaflet on Smoke Control Areas - Smoke Control Areas: Do you know the rules? - DEFRA UK Air
GOV.UK: Smoke Control Area Rules - Smoke control areas: the rules
If you're unsure whether your property is within the Smoke Control Area or need advice on compliant appliances and fuels, please contact Env.health@stevenage.gov.uk