Bonfires and smoke

You can have a bonfire in your garden as long as it’s not causing a problem for your neighbours. There are no smoke-free zones in the South Norfolk and Broadland areas.

Tips to avoid problems:

• only burn dry wood (wet wood gives off more smoke)
• never burn household rubbish or rubber tyres, or use oil to light the fire
• check to make sure your neighbours haven't hung washing outside
• avoid lighting a bonfire on damp days (smoke is more likely to hang in the air)
• be careful of wind direction - make sure smoke isn’t blowing over other people’s property
• avoid having a bonfire on a weekend or bank holiday when people want to enjoy their gardens
• never leave a fire unattended or leave it to smoulder - douse it with water if necessary

If you are affected by smoke from a bonfire

Your neighbour might not know their bonfire is affecting you so you should speak to them first to let them know. We are unable to take action for one-off bonfires, however if the problem is regular you can report it to us using the links below.

Report a smoke problem if you live in Broadland or South Norfolk