Bonfires

Bonfires

Bonfires have been a means of disposing of domestic and garden waste for many years. Bonfires may seem like a harmless way of getting rid of your rubbish but they can cause nuisance to your neighbours. Similar problems arise from BBQ smoke and odours.

The Law

Under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, smoke and ash caused by bonfires may constitute a statutory nuisance.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council has a legal duty to take action against those who create a statutory nuisance or allow it to occur. Under the same Act, private individuals are also able to take their own action by complaining to the Magistrates Court. Individuals can also pursue action for private nuisance in the civil courts where damages may be awarded should the local authority not be able to prove a statutory nuisance to their satisfaction. Further issues arise when smoke causes visual obstruction across highways.

For more guidelines regarding bonfires, please download the bonfires leaflet from the downloads section on the right.