Council bans wood-burning stoves over environmental concerns

A council has banned wood-burning stoves in its council properties due to health and safety concerns.

Angus council in Scotland says it will not permit the installation or replacement of solid fuel heating systems in its properties, except in exceptional circumstances.

The council say this will not apply to private homeowners or private landlords.

Our priority is to provide efficient, and environmentally responsible heating for our tenants

Under the new policy, Angus Council says each application for a wood-burning stove in its council-owned properties will “be considered on its merits, but the default position will be to refuse requests due to environmental and health risks.”

The council adds that in exceptional circumstances, where solid fuel may be a more cost-effective option, “an application may be considered following a full assessment and subject to approval.”

Angus Council’s Housing Committee Convener, Councillor Jill Scott, said: “This policy is about ensuring clarity for our tenants in how the council will deal with requests regarding wood burners, stove and open fires in council properties. It does not apply to private homeowners.

“While we understand the role of wood burners and open fires, our priority is to provide safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible heating for our tenants.”

The council adds where installations are already in place, tenants are responsible for maintaining their own appliances, while the council will maintain any solid fuel systems that are council-owned in line with safety requirements.