Are you allowed to burn garden waste in the UK?

Autumn brings crisp evenings, falling leaves, and plenty of garden clear-ups. For many, the easiest way to deal with piles of branches and cuttings is to light a bonfire. But before you strike a match, it’s worth knowing the rules (and the safer alternatives) so your autumn tidy-up doesn’t come with an unexpected fine.

What are the rules for garden bonfires in the UK?

In most areas, you are allowed to have the occasional bonfire using dry garden waste such as leaves, branches, and hedge cuttings. However, problems arise if:

• The fire produces a large amount of smoke.
• Fires are lit regularly and cause a nuisance to neighbours.
• Smoke drifts onto roads and creates a hazard for drivers.

If a neighbour complains and your bonfire is classed as a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, your council can issue an abatement notice telling you to stop. If ignored, you can be fined up to £5,000.

Did you know? There were over 5,600 smoke complaints made in the UK in 2023 and 2024. Don’t risk another this autumn; hire a garden waste skip, and safely  dispose of all your cuttings.

What are smoke control zones?

Many urban areas across the UK are designated as smoke control zones. If you live in one of these areas, stricter rules apply:

• Heavy smoke is not allowed from chimneys, sheds, or summerhouses.
• Only government-approved fuels and appliances can be used.
• Burning or supplying non-approved fuels can result in fines of up to £5,000.

It is also illegal to burn plastics, rubber, painted or treated wood, or household rubbish, as these release toxic pollutants into the air.

What should I keep in mind when burning garden waste?

Bonfires can easily cause problems with neighbours if smoke drifts into their garden or home. To avoid complaints (and possible action from the council), it helps to follow a few simple things to keep in mind:

Choose the right time: Avoid burning on weekends, bank holidays, or evenings when people are more likely to be at home. This reduces the chance of disturbing neighbours.

Never leave a bonfire unattended: Fires that get out of control can quickly become dangerous and lead to fire and smoke spreading further than intended.

Let your neighbours know: A quick heads-up gives them time to close windows, bring in washing, or make other arrangements.

What are the best bonfire alternatives to use?

If you want to avoid smoke, complaints, and the risk of fines, there are safer and more eco-friendly ways to dispose of garden waste than burning it. Here are some of the best alternatives to bonfires:

Composting at home:
This is one of the most sustainable alternatives to a bonfire. It turns grass cuttings, leaves, and branches into nutrient-rich material you can use in your garden next year. It also reduces waste going to landfill and improves your soil naturally.

Local recycling centres:
Most councils provide garden waste recycling facilities where you can drop off branches, hedge trimmings and leaves. This keeps your garden clear without the risks that come with open fires.

Council garden waste collections:
Many areas also offer a garden waste bin service, collected regularly alongside household waste. This is one of the simplest ways to get rid of cuttings and clippings.

Can I use a skip for garden waste?

Hiring a domestic skip is one of the easiest ways to get rid of large amounts of garden waste, especially after a big clear-out. Instead of worrying about smoke, complaints, or fines, you can simply load everything in and let a licensed waste company take care of it.
Skips are ideal for:

• • Branches, hedge trimmings, and leaves: Perfect after pruning or a seasonal tidy-up.
  • Soil and turf: Great if you’re digging new borders or reshaping the garden.
  • Old garden furniture or fencing: Bulky items that can’t be composted are no problem in a skip.

Not only does hiring a skip for your garden waste save repeated trips to the tip, but it also makes sure your waste is handled responsibly and recycled wherever possible.

Clear your garden waste the easy way

Why risk neighbour complaints, council fines, or endless trips to the tip when there’s a simpler solution?

At Wheeldon Brothers, we make garden waste removal hassle-free with reliable skip hire and waste management services across Greater Manchester.

Whether it’s branches, soil, or a full garden overhaul, we’ll collect it, recycle it, and save you the stress of burning or transporting it yourself. Ready for a cleaner, quicker way to clear your garden? Book your skip today and let our family-run team take care of the rest.