Worthing Borough Council

Air Pollution Complaints

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01903 221064

Environmental.Protection@worthing.gov.uk

Air pollution complaints are regularly received and investigated on behalf of complainants. The complaints normally are the type known as Statutory Nuisances, where it alleged that smoke, dust, fumes or odour (from commercial premises) is arising on one property and is affecting the occupants of another property.

The commonest causes of air pollution complaints are bonfires and there are some common misconceptions about the law relating to them. It is often thought by people that bonfires are completely prohibited or that they are only allowed after 6pm. Neither of these facts is strictly accurate as can be seen from the following advice

• Bonfires contribute towards pollution on a local and global scale
• They can be harmful to health.
• They ideally should be avoided
• Bonfires are not currently prohibited but must be carried out in a manner that does not give rise to a Statutory Nuisance
• Industrial bonfires are subject to tighter legal controls than domestic bonfires
• If visible smoke, ash or smuts fall on neighbouring premises then this may be considered a Statutory Nuisance
• Choice of material, weather conditions and time of burning are important to ensure that a Statutory Nuisance is not caused

If you have any enquiries and/or complaints about bonfires or other air pollution based complaints please contact Environmental Health.

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