Whilst garden bonfires may have been a traditional method of disposing of garden wastes, burning garden waste produces smoke which contains carbon monoxide and toxic fumes. Most of us have neighbours living close by who may not share our enjoyment of a bonfire. Smoke can ruin a neighbour's enjoyment of their garden, prevent windows being opened and prevent them hanging out their washing.
These days it is not necessary to burn waste. You will find that nearby is a Kent County Council local amenity site, where most waste items including cardboard, can be recycled or composted.
If you are bothered by smoke from a bonfire, firstly approach your neighbour and explain the problem. Immediate recourse to your Local Authority may cause animosity between you and your neighbour. Should this approach fail, it may be that the Environmental Services Division can assist. It is useful to keep records of the dates and times nuisance from the bonfires occurred.
Section 79 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 refers to nuisances caused by smoke. It may well be that smoky bonfires could be a contravention of the Act if they occur on a regular basis, and prosecution may result. It is, however, the view of this Authority that most people are proud of their civic responsibility as they are of their own gardens, and will consider their neighbours before lighting a bonfire.
Further information and guidance on bonfires is obtainable by contacting the Pollution Section, Environmental Services on 01304 821199 or visit the National Society for Clean Air and Environmental Protection at www.nsca.org.uk.
AIR POLLUTION: Burning garden waste produces smoke, especially if it is damp and smouldering. This will contain pollutants including carbon monoxide, dioxins and particles. Burning plastic, rubber or painted materials not only creates an unpleasant smell but also produces a range of poisonous compounds. Your bonfire will also add to the general background level of air pollution. Air pollution in the UK often reaches unhealthy levels - do you really want to make it worse?
HEALTH EFFECTS: Emissions from bonfires can have damaging health effects. Serious harm in unlikely if exposure to bonfire smoke is brief. However problems may be caused for asthmatics, bronchitis sufferers, people with heart conditions and children.
ANNOYANCE: The smoke, smuts and smell from bonfires are the subject of many complaints to local authorities. Smoke prevents your neighbours from enjoying their gardens, opening windows or hanging washing out, and reduces visibility in the neighbourhood and on roads. Allotments near homes can cause particular problems, if plot holders persistently burn waste.
SAFETY: Fire can spread to fences or buildings and scorch trees and plants. Exploding bottles and cans are a hazard when rubbish is burned. Piles of garden waste are often used as a refuge by animals so look out for hibernating wildlife and sleeping pets.
Contact the Customer Services Team
Telephone: 01304 872428
E-mail: customerservices@dover.gov.uk
