Everything you need to know
to keep your coal fire burning

A Real Fire is a welcoming sight

With winter approaching, many will be preparing open fireplaces, stoves and buying solid fuel to heat their homes over the cold months to come. However, new legislation which banned the sale of house coal, wet wood and some manufactured fuels to householders in England won’t cause you problems when buying your fuel.

STOP – you don’t need to remove your coal burning fire or multi fuel burning stove

There is no need to remove your beloved open fireplace or stove. Stoves and household open fires are still allowed but you must only burn fuels that reduce air pollution, such as anthracite and Ready to Burn smokeless fuel.
Always check which fuel is suitable for your fire.

START – using smokeless solid fuel

You can use Ready to Burn smokeless solid fuel in open fireplaces and stoves – this is completely compliant within England’s Clean Air Strategy and is not subject to any bans on domestic use.

All you must do to keep your fire burning this winter and beyond is look out for the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo when purchasing your fuel.

RELAX – keep your fire burning

With that, it’s time to settle down, light your fire and relax.

FAQ – how to keep using your real fire

Please find some information below to clear up any confusion:

The 2021 ban on house coal, wet wood and high sulphur fuels explained ?

The legislation is designed to improve air quality and is focused on reducing fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions which come from many sources including burning solid fuels at home. These changes will result in cleaner burning to protect the health of householders and their neighbours. Alternative fuels are Ready to Burn smokeless fuels, anthracite and kiln dried wood..

Do I need to remove my fireplace/stove?

You do not need to remove your open fireplace or stove to comply with current Government legislation in England.

Is it illegal to use my fireplace/stove?

It is not illegal to use your open fireplace or stove in England unless you usually burn house coal in a Smoke Control Area. We urge those concerned to contact their local Environmental Health Department for more information about Smoke Control Areas. Alternatively, telephone or email the Solid Fuel Association who can advise on fuels and appliances that can be used in Smoke Control Areas. sfa@solidfuel.co.uk 01773 835400

What can I burn in my fireplace/stove?

Using solid fuels with the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo ensures the cleanest burn possible, producing minimal levels of particulate matter and NOx on combustion. Smokeless fuels can offer these benefits when used in an open fireplace or stove.

Everything you need to know to keep your coal fire burning