Response 4081150

Response to request for information

Reference

4081150

Response date

14 August 2026

Request

I am writing to request information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 regarding inspections and enforcement action relating to domestic log burners (wood-burning stoves) within your council area. Please provide the following information for the last five full tax years. 

1. The number of complaints received by the council relating to domestic log burners in the period.
2. The number of inspections or investigations carried out by the council relating to domestic log burners or wood-burning stoves.
3. The reasons for these inspections (for example, complaints received, smoke nuisance, planning issues, Clean Air Act matters, or other concerns).
4. The number of cases where the council identified a breach or issue requiring action.
5. Details of the action taken following these inspections, including:
   • informal advice or warnings issued;
   • enforcement notices served;
   • fines or penalties issued;
   • prosecutions or other legal action taken;
   • any other remedial action required.

Response

1. The number of complaints received by the council relating to domestic log burners.
   • 2021/22 = 15 complaints.
   • 2022/23 = 11 complaints.
   • 2023/24 = 5 complaints.
   • 2024/25 = 3 complaints.
   • 2025/26 = 4 complaints.
2. The number of inspections or investigations carried out by the council relating to domestic log burners or wood-burning stoves.
   • 2021/22 = 14 investigations.
   • 2022/23 = 11 investigations.
   • 2023/24 = 5 investigations.
   • 2024/25 = 3 investigations.
   • 2025/26 = 4 investigations.
3. The reasons for these inspections.
   • With the exception of one case in 2021 all investigations were instigated as a result of complaints received by the Service. The one exception was in relation to an enquiry around Clean Air Act provisions. 
4. The number of cases where the council identified a breach or issue requiring action. 
   • Zero.
5. Details of the action taken following these inspections
   • Not Applicable.