Are Fireplaces Banned in London?

By Michael Ferguson

Introduction

London is known for its chilly weather and cozy fireplaces. However, there have been rumors circulating that fireplaces are banned in London.

But is this really true In this article, we will investigate the truth behind this rumor.

The Clean Air Act of 1956

One of the reasons why people believe that fireplaces are banned in London is due to the Clean Air Act of 1956. This act was introduced to combat London’s air pollution problem caused by burning coal in homes and factories. The act made it illegal to emit smoke from a chimney unless it was burning an authorized fuel or exempted under the legislation.

Authorized Fuels

The Clean Air Act of 1956 authorized certain fuels for use in fireplaces and stoves. These include:

  • Smokeless fuels such as anthracite, semi-anthracite, gas-coke, and low volatile steam coal.
  • Wood that has been dried for at least two years.
  • Briquettes made from sawdust or wood chips.

Exempted Buildings

There are also buildings that are exempted under the Clean Air Act of 1956, which means they can burn any kind of fuel in their fireplaces or stoves without facing legal consequences. These buildings include:

  • Homes built before 1960 with an existing fireplace or stove.
  • Homes with a listed building status.
  • Museums with a fireplace or stove as part of their exhibit.
  • Premises used for religious ceremonies.
  • Homes without a connection to the mains gas supply.

The London Fireplace Company

Another reason why people believe that fireplaces are banned in London is due to the London Fireplace Company. This company has been known to tell customers that fireplaces are banned in London, which is not entirely true. The company claims that the Clean Air Act of 1956 makes it difficult to install a traditional fireplace or stove in London homes, but this is not entirely true.

Conclusion

So, are fireplaces banned in London The answer is no, they’re not.

While there are restrictions on what fuels can be burned and exemptions for certain buildings, fireplaces and stoves can still be installed and used legally in many homes throughout London. It’s important to do your research and follow the guidelines set out by the Clean Air Act of 1956 to ensure that you’re burning authorized fuels and not emitting harmful smoke into the environment.