Waltham Forest Council is set to consolidate its existing Smoke Control Orders (SCOs) into a single, borough-wide order, aiming to improve air quality and streamline enforcement. The decision was made at a Council meeting held on 11 December 2025.

The move comes as the council recognises the increasing contribution of domestic wood burning to particulate matter emissions, particularly PM2.5, which is considered the most harmful pollutant. A report presented at the meeting highlighted that incomplete documentation of the existing 30 individual SCAs, dating back to 1962, has made enforcement problematic. The new SCO is expected to generate greater public awareness, provide clarity for residents and businesses and allow for more effective enforcement. These measures will allow the Council to continue to reduce emissions from domestic wood burning and reduce the health impacts on the residents.

Under the new borough-wide Smoke Control Order, only certain smokeless or authorised fuels can be burned in SCAs, or appliances that have been granted an exemption by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) can be used. An 'exempt' appliance must only be used with the type of fuel permitted by Defra for that appliance.

The council aims to address these issues by:

  • Consolidating existing SCAs into a single SCA covering the entire borough.
  • Publishing a notice regarding the revocation of existing SCOs and the creation of a new one.

The new Smoke Control Order will also include vessels moored within the borough's waterways, extending the regulations to houseboats.

The council will now proceed with publishing the required notices in the London Gazette and a local newspaper for two successive weeks, and undertaking a public consultation for a minimum of six weeks before implementing the new order. During the consultation period, any person who will be affected can object to the proposal by writing to Defra. The draft smoke control order notice and draft revocation order will be provided to Defra. Defra's Secretary of State must confirm the Revocation Order before the Revocation Order and new Order come into operation at least six months after Defra's confirmation.

The penalty for emitting smoke from a chimney in a Smoke Control Area can be up to £300. The current statutory guidance states that local authorities should develop and document their own policies on how much to charge those responsible for smoke emissions.

An Equality Impact Assessment Screener indicated that the new order is expected to have a positive impact on age groups more susceptible to air pollution, people with disabilities, and pregnant women.