Environmental health - Smoke issues

The Environmental Health Team can investigate complaints of smoke due to the burning of materials where it has become a reoccurring issue and is significantly affecting the enjoyment of your home.

In the event of a smoke or fire emergency call the emergency services immediately.  

Areas Environmental Health do not cover:

• Dark smoke from industrial plants if regulated under the Pollution Prevention and Control Permits regulated by SEPA.
• The burning of waste on commercial/industrial sites is regulated by SEPA through Waste Management Licences and Pollution Prevention and Control Permits.
• If smoke is affecting roads Police Scotland should be notified.

Areas Environmental Health do cover: 

• Burning of household waste
• Firepits
• Woodburning stoves

Actions officers may take:

• Officers will recommend in the first instance that you speak to the person or business causing the source of your smoke complaint. They may not know there is an issue. 
• Officers may request you to keep a detailed record of the disturbances in the form of smoke monitoring forms (this record may be used if legal action is taken later, and you should be prepared to go to court in such cases).  
• Officers may contact the person(s)/business being complained about, advising them of the complaint and ask them to take steps which may be necessary to reduce the smoke. 
• A visit from the investigating officer(s) to witness the disturbance. 

Information collated from the investigation by the officers will determine what action they may then take.  

If you feel the smoke is regular issue and causing an impact to you or your living environment or health, please contact the Environmental Health team at eh@pkc.gov.uk or 01738 476476. 

If you are being disturbed by bonfires and smoke from neighbouring properties, please see Report a bonfire or smoke problem.