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Are Log Burners at Risk? What You Need to Know About the Future of Domestic Wood Burning
October 10, 2025

Are Log Burners at Risk? What You Need to Know About the Future of Domestic Wood Burning

In recent years, headlines have stirred panic around the future of wood-burning stoves in UK homes — with phrases like "log burner ban" or "end of wood fires" sparking confusion and concern. But what’s the truth behind the smoke?

If you rely on firewood for warmth or simply love the ambience of a wood-burning stove, this guide breaks down the UK’s current stance on wood burning, the 2025 updates, and how you can continue burning logs legally, sustainably, and responsibly.

🔥 Are Log Burners Being Banned in the UK?

No — log burners are not being banned in the UK.
What’s changing are the rules around emissions and the type of fuel you can burn, especially in Smoke Control Areas (SCAs), which cover many urban parts of the country.

The government is not outlawing wood-burning stoves, but it is pushing for cleaner-burning practices to reduce air pollution — particularly particulate matter (PM2.5).

📜 Understanding the 2025 Regulations

Here’s what’s coming or already in place:

✅ “Ready to Burn” Fuel Requirements

  • Since 2021 in England, it’s been illegal to sell wet wood (moisture >20%) in small quantities.

  • All firewood sold for domestic use must now carry the Woodsure “Ready to Burn” certification.

🔧 Eco-Design Compliant Stoves

  • As of 2022, only stoves that meet EcoDesign efficiency and emissions standards can be sold.

  • Older stoves are still legal to use, but upgrading is encouraged.

🌆 Smoke Control Areas Enforcement

  • In SCAs, burning non-compliant fuels or causing excessive smoke may lead to fines up to £300.

👉 Curious if you're in a Smoke Control Area? You can check with your local council.

🪵 What Does This Mean for Log Burner Owners?

✅ You can still use a log burner in 2025 — as long as you:

  • Use certified Ready to Burn wood with <20% moisture

  • Keep your stove well-maintained

  • Avoid burning waste, treated wood, or wet logs

  • Consider upgrading to an EcoDesign stove if you haven't already

There’s no ban on burning wood, but there is a growing emphasis on burning the right kind of wood the right way.

🏷️ Why “Ready to Burn” Logs Are the Future

The Woodsure Ready to Burn label isn’t just a regulatory box-tick — it’s a commitment to:

  • Lower smoke emissions

  • Greater energy efficiency

  • Safer, cleaner indoor air

  • A better experience for your chimney and your neighbours

💡 All firewood from J&H Logs is Woodsure Ready to Burn certified and kiln-dried to below 20% moisture — ensuring a clean, efficient burn every time.

🌱 Log Suppliers Aren’t the Problem — They’re Part of the Solution

At J&H Logs and across the UK’s firewood industry, responsible suppliers are working with government targets — not against them.

  • Logs are sourced from sustainably managed UK woodlands

  • Moisture content is meticulously monitored

  • Packaging and delivery methods are becoming increasingly eco-friendly

Supporting local firewood businesses like J&H not only keeps your home warm — it supports sustainable forestry and low-carbon heating.

🧯 Top Tips for Burning Responsibly

  1. ✅ Only burn dry, certified hardwood logs

  2. 🔥 Use kindling and eco firelighters to start your fire quickly and cleanly

  3. 💨 Ensure proper airflow in your stove

  4. 🧽 Sweep your chimney regularly

  5. 🚫 Never burn household waste, damp wood, or treated materials

❓ FAQ: What People Are Asking

Are all log burners going to be banned in the UK?
No. There’s no plan to ban log burners outright. The focus is on reducing pollution by regulating what you burn and how.

Can I still burn firewood in 2025 and beyond?
Yes — as long as it’s certified dry wood. Using kiln-dried logs is both legal and recommended.

Is my older stove illegal?
Not yet — but newer EcoDesign models are much more efficient and cleaner. An upgrade is advisable if your stove is more than 10 years old.

Can I burn logs in a Smoke Control Area?
Yes — if your stove is DEFRA-exempt and you're burning Ready to Burn certified logs.

🔚 Final Thoughts: The Future is Clean, Not Cancelled

Log burners aren’t going anywhere — but the way we use them is evolving. By choosing low-emission appliances, certified firewood, and responsible suppliers, we can all enjoy the comfort of a roaring fire without compromising on clean air or climate goals.

🔥 Stay compliant, burn clean, and support local:
Explore J&H Logs' full range of Ready to Burn firewood

Next article The 2025 UK Firewood Buying Guide: Prices, Quality, and Red Flags to Avoid