Ban on wood burning stoves scrapped in Scotland as UK tightens law

Wood-burning stoves will be permitted in new-build homes or conversions, the Scottish Government has confirmed. Restrictions on their installation were dropped on a temporary basis in September and ministers have now clarified they will be removed altogether from January 1.

The Scottish Conservatives said the change is a “victory for common sense”. Regulations known as the New Build Heat Standard came into effect from April, meaning new-build homes could not install sources of heating which directly produced emissions.

From January 1, new homes will be allowed to have bioenergy or peat as their main sources of heat, but the prohibition on mains gas and oil-fuelled boilers will be maintained. Alasdair Allan, acting minister for climate action said: “The New Build Heat Standard is crucial to help reduce emissions from new buildings, preventing the need for retrofit in the future and ensuring a cleaner and greener Scotland.

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“Heat from our homes and buildings makes up almost a fifth of Scotland’s carbon emissions so we must tackle the most polluting forms of domestic heating to reach net zero. We have listened to concerns from rural and island communities about resilience in times of bad weather or power outages, as well as the wider use of bioenergy and peat for other reasons.

“These changes address these concerns whilst retaining the spirit of the original legislation, which aims to eradicate polluting gas and oil boilers from new homes and buildings.”

The UK has tightened regulations on wood-burning stoves to reduce air pollution and improve health outcomes. Since January 2022, new wood-burning stoves must comply with Ecodesign standards, ensuring they emit fewer pollutants. These stoves are more efficient and release less particulate matter than older models.

In urban and designated "smoke control areas," only DEFRA-exempt stoves are allowed unless burning authorized, low-emission fuels. Most UK cities fall under these areas, so checking with local authorities is advisable.

The UK mandates the use of seasoned wood with less than 20% moisture, marked by a "Ready to Burn" label. Wet wood, which produces more pollutants, is prohibited. Authorized fuels help ensure cleaner burning, and you may be fined up to £1,000 for using unapproved fuels.

Stoves must be installed by certified professionals to meet UK building regulations, ensuring proper flue installation, ventilation, and safety standards. Homes with stoves require a carbon monoxide detector in the same room to comply with safety regulations.

Authorities can impose fines, ranging from £175 to £300 for minor violations, and up to £5,000 for severe breaches or repeat offenses. Local councils enforce these rules, especially in areas with high pollution concerns.