With Cambridge City Council considering expanding its Smoke Control Zone to cover the entire city, many homeowners are wondering what this means for their fireplaces and stoves. If you live in Cambridge and enjoy using solid fuels to heat your home, it’s essential to understand how to stay compliant while still making the most of your chimney.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about using your chimney in a Smoke Control Zone, from the types of fuels allowed to the stoves that meet regulations.
Can You Still Use Your Chimney in a Smoke Control Zone?
Yes! Many people assume that a Smoke Control Zone means they have to stop using their fireplace or stove entirely, but this is not the case. The rules simply mean you must burn an authorised fuel or use an exempt (DEFRA-approved) appliance to minimise smoke emissions.
If you already have a compliant stove or burn the right fuel, you can continue using your chimney without any issues.
How to Check if Your Appliance is Compliant
If you live in a Smoke Control Zone, you must either:
- Use an exempt (DEFRA-approved) stove or fireplace – These appliances are designed to burn fuels efficiently, producing minimal smoke.
- Burn an authorised fuel – If your appliance is not exempt, you must use an approved smokeless fuel.
How to Identify Your Stove Type
Before determining whether your stove is compliant with Smoke Control Zone regulations, you need to identify what type of stove you have.
- Check the base of your stove:
- If it has a solid base, it is a wood-burning stove (can only burn wood).
- If it has a grate with a griddle, it is a multi-fuel stove (can burn both wood and smokeless coal).
Once you know your stove type, the next step is checking if it is DEFRA-approved.
How to Check if Your Stove is DEFRA-Approved
Even if your stove is solid fuel or multi-fuel, that does not automatically mean it is DEFRA-approved. To check compliance:
- Look for a DEFRA approval plate or manual.
- Check the official DEFRA-approved appliance list.
What to Do if Your Stove is Not DEFRA-Approved
- If you have a multi-fuel stove that is not DEFRA-approved, you must only burn smokeless coal in a Smoke Control Zone.
- If you have a wood-burning-only stove that is not DEFRA-approved, you will need to replace it, as you cannot burn smokeless coal in a wood-burning stove, and burning wood in a non-DEFRA-approved stove is not permitted.
- If you want to continue burning wood legally, you will need to upgrade to a DEFRA-approved stove.
What Fuels Can You Burn in a Smoke Control Zone?
If your appliance is not exempt, you must use an authorised fuel. Common approved fuels include:
- Smokeless coal (anthracite, semi-anthracite)
- Manufactured smokeless fuels (e.g., Homefire, Taybrite, Phurnacite)
- Check the official DEFRA-approved fuel list.
Burning wet wood, house coal, or other unauthorised fuels in a non-exempt appliance is illegal in a Smoke Control Zone and could lead to fines of up to £1,000.
Tips for Using Your Chimney Efficiently and Legally
Even with an exempt appliance or authorised fuel, using your chimney correctly is key to safety, efficiency, and compliance.
1. Have Your Chimney Swept Regularly
- A clean chimney reduces smoke emissions and ensures safe operation.
- Book a professional chimney sweep at least once a year (or more if you use your stove frequently).
2. Store and Burn Dry Wood Only (If Using an Exempt Stove)
- Moisture in wood increases smoke and pollution.
- Ensure wood has a moisture content below 20%.
- Look for Woodsure Ready to Burn certification when buying logs.
3. Use Your Appliance as Recommended
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for loading fuel and air control.
- Poor usage can cause more smoke and creosote buildup, increasing chimney fire risks.
Is Cambridge Expanding the Smoke Control Zone?
Currently, only parts of Cambridge city are in a Smoke Control Zone. However, as of March 2025, Cambridge City Council is gathering feedback on whether to expand the zone to cover the entire city.
If approved, this expansion could mean stricter enforcement and more homeowners needing to upgrade stoves or change fuel choices.
You can read more and participate in the consultation here.
Trust the Experts in Chimney Safety
With over 40 years of experience and as founders of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, Ablewight Chimney Services is here to help you stay compliant and safe while continuing to enjoy your fireplace or stove.
Every chimney sweep with Ablewight Chimney Services includes:
- A full safety inspection to protect your home and family
- Insurance-valid certification for peace of mind
- Expert advice on compliant fuels and appliances
- A no-mess guarantee—we leave your home as clean as we found it
- £5 million public liability insurance for added protection
📞 Call us today at 01223 627012 or email hello@ablewight.co.uk to book your professional chimney service.
Don’t take risks with your chimney. Stay compliant, safe, and warm—trust the experts who set the standards in chimney care.
👉 Contact Us Today to schedule your appointment.
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