Can You Still Burn Solid Fuel in Cambridge?

Name: Ablewight Chimney Services
Address: The Officer's Mess, Royston Road, Duxford, St Neots, PE19, UK
Telephone: 01223 627012

You can burn solid fuel in Cambridge right now without restriction from the Smoke Control Area scheme — because there currently isn’t one in force anywhere in the city. The previous, smaller Smoke Control Area was revoked to make way for a new citywide area, and that citywide area hasn’t taken effect yet. That will change once it does, expected by the end of 2026: from that point, you’ll need to burn an authorised fuel or use a DEFRA-approved (exempt) appliance so your chimney doesn’t emit excess smoke.

This guide covers exactly what solid fuel you’ll be able to burn once the citywide rules are in force, which appliances qualify, and how to get ready before the deadline.

Can You Still Burn Solid Fuel in a Smoke Control Area?

Yes! Many people assume that a Smoke Control Area 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 Area, 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 Area 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 Area.
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 Area?

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.

Smokeless coal like anthracite is one of the most common approved options — see our guide to natural anthracite and other approved fuels in Cambridge for a full breakdown.

Burning wet wood, house coal, or other unauthorised fuels in a non-exempt appliance is illegal in a Smoke Control Area 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.

For the full rules on fuels, appliances, and compliance across Cambridge, see our complete Cambridge Smoke Control Area guide.

Is Cambridge Expanding the Smoke Control Area?

*Source:* *DEFRA Smoke Control Area Map*

Currently, only parts of Cambridge city are in a Smoke Control Area. However, as of March 2025, Cambridge City Council is gathering feedback on whether to expand the area 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: