UK's new log burner regulations for 2024 and what you need to know

With stoves being much more energy efficient and many looking to cut their bills, more people than ever may be relying on wood-burning stoves this year, but there are regulations that must be followed

Wood-burning stoves, a popular choice for many households looking to keep warm and cut energy bills during the winter months, are subject to new regulations that came into effect in 2022. These rules stipulate that all newly manufactured wood-burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves, and fireplaces must meet stringent guidelines known as Ecodesign.

The installation of these heating devices must also comply with Building Regulations, and there are specific rules regarding the type of fuel that can be used. According to the HomeOwners Alliance, an Ecodesign mark indicates that the stove has been independently tested by an approved laboratory and meets air quality and particulate requirements.

Stoves are evaluated based on their seasonal efficiency over a year, levels of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and organic gaseous compounds produced by burning fuel. If correctly installed, well-maintained, and used with good quality dry wood, an Ecodesign stove is considered a low-carbon heating method using renewable and sustainable fuel.

These regulations were introduced to reduce pollution from wood burners, following the Government's Clean Air Strategy 2019 which found that burning stoves accounted for 38% of particulate matter air pollution. If you already own a log burner that doesn't meet the Ecodesign standards, you can still use it.

However, if you live in a smoke control area, there may be additional criteria to meet, reports the Express.

A smoke control area is a legally defined zone where substantial amounts of smoke cannot be emitted from a chimney, as per the Government website. Households could face fines ranging from £175 to £300 for breaking this rule.

Smoke control maps are available online to check if you live near one. It's illegal to purchase unauthorised fuel for use in a smoke control area unless it's for an exempt appliance.

New log burner rules enforced since May 2021 have made the sale of bagged house coal and wet wood in units under two cubic metres unlawful. This came after the World Health Organisation identified these as the most serious air pollutants affecting human health.

Only certain types of dry wood, with less than 20% moisture content, are suitable for burning. As it can be challenging to determine the moisture content of wood, it's advised to invest in a moisture meter or buy from a reputable supplier.