Local authorities are facing increasing pressure over air pollution from domestic wood burning, as campaigners warn inconsistent enforcement is leaving residents exposed to harmful smoke.
Freedom of Information data show more than 15,000 complaints were made across England last year, yet only 24 fines were issued—equivalent to one fine for every 630 complaints.
In Smoke Control Areas, complaints rose by 65%, reaching 9,274, despite restrictions already in place. Health professionals report growing concern about respiratory illness, particularly in children, linked to fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) from wood and coal burning.
The campaign group Mums for Lungs is urging central government to phase out domestic wood burning in urban areas and to strengthen public health messaging.
Councils are also being asked to raise local awareness and consider proactive measures to protect vulnerable residents while national standards and enforcement frameworks remain under review.
.png)
