bloody neighbours. ...

[tonyb]

This is a difficult situation for which you have my sympathy. I'm no lawyer but I think your neighbour's legal options are probably limited to approaching the local authority and claiming the wfo ia a cause of statutory nuisance. The guidance on statutory nuisance is covered here www.gov.uk/statutory-nuisance and whilst there's nothing about wfos the nearest thing would seem to be on bonfires.

If it was me, I'd:

- keep a record of when I fired up,
- make sure I told the neighbour as much in advance as possible, keep a record
- use dried seasoned wood to minimise smoke, keep a record

I've always considered wfo to be not much different to bbqs which can be almost as smokey at times, and I would be surprised if the local authority would progress any action for occasional wfo use if you adopt the above precautions.

[rcorbie]

Hello, I am not a lawyer, but I had a look at this as a potential issue before building my WFO and also before building a chicken coop.

My understanding (simple terms) is that a WFO falls under the umbrella of outdoor equipment for the domestic use that contributes to the enjoyment of your home. As such you are entitles to use it in this manner. (Like any outdoor BBQ)

Above may be affected by any local restrictions with respect to smoke & or type of fuel you are permitted to burn. This info should be provided by the local authority. (Website?)

Hope that helps.

May be a good idea for your neighbor to get legal advice as he may well get the information that will stop his complaining.

R

You may want to check this out from DEFRA.

smokecontrol.defra.gov.uk/appliances.php?country=e

and this from the GOV website.

www.gov.uk/smoke-control-area-rules

[rivergirl]

I had this here in blighty so before a light up I would go around their house and ask if they wanted me to put anything in it for them!! He's okay as long as he gets a plate of grub the next day. Mind you on buying the new house I did make sure that my new build will be nowhere near anyone!