There are no Byelaws about garden bonfires, however if it causes a statutory nuisance, then the Council can use the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to deal with this. You will need show that the bonfire is a considerable nuisance i.e. if it is a regular occurrence or there is a lot of smoke. Barbecues can also be considered a nuisance, only if they are very regular and the smoke is very bad.

It is an offence for smoke from a bonfire to drift onto a public highway as stated in the Highways Acts. If this is the case, contact the police.

If a bonfire emits dark smoke - as defined by the Clean Air Act 1990 - then an immediate offence is committed and the Council can take action, including prosecution.

Alternatives to using bonfires for garden waste disposal include garden waste collection and composting.