We will continue to fulfil our statutory functions, including the investigation of alleged nuisance complaints.
However, due to the current Covid restrictions, internal visits to occupied premises/properties will not be undertaken and may extend the time for officers to complete these investigations.
We encourage residents to be considerate to one another and ensure their activities do not cause a nuisance, or additional stress, to others.
You can report problems with bonfires and other burning materials to us.
Call 999 if you are concerned about smoke from a building, or smoke causing poor visibility on a highway.
We publish guidance on bonfires and burning materials.
If you have concerns regarding smoke from your neighbour's bonfire, you may wish to discuss the matter with them as they may not be aware that there is a problem. This resolves the majority of complaints.
If this is not successful, we may formally investigate your complaint and offer individual advice.
A 'one-off' incident is unlikely to be investigated.
The use of such appliances is a reasonable activity, and you might expect to smell your neighbour's stove or fire from time to time.
If you have concerns regarding smoke from your neighbour's solid fuel burner, you may wish to discuss the matter with them as they may not be aware that there is a problem. This resolves the majority of complaints.
If this is not successful, we can formally investigate your complaint and also offer individual advice.
You can contact us to make a complaint about bonfires or burning materials.
When making a complaint, we require:
We do not investigate anonymous complaints.
As part of the investigation, we will require the completion of a diary sheet noting episodes of bonfire use or burning. This is generally over a one to three week period.
Upon receipt of the diary, it may then be appropriate for us to contact your neighbour and offer advice on how the situation may be improved.
Should the problem persist, officers may visit to gather evidence of the extent of the problem. If we are unable to resolve the matter informally and are satisfied of the existence of a Statutory Nuisance, an Abatement Notice may be served requiring that the nuisance be abated.
Failure to comply with an Abatement Notice is an offence and legal proceedings may result. If found guilty of an offence of this type, then there is an unlimited fine.
You may be required to give evidence in the Magistrates Court.
You can contact us to make a complaint about anything detailed above, or to ask questions about bonfires and burning materials.
Email: eandr@nfdc.gov.uk
Phone: 02380 285411
Environmental Health (Protection)
Appletree Court
Beaulieu Road
Lyndhurst
SO43 7PA
Our office hours are:
Monday to Thursday: 8.45am to 5.15pm
Fridays: 8.45am to 4.45pm
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