Burning wood, both indoors and outdoors, can provide warmth and a cosy atmosphere. Think of an open fire, a wood-burning stove, a fire pit or a barbecue. At the same time, wood smoke can pose health risks and cause a nuisance to the neighbourhood. On this page, you can read about how to burn wood responsibly and what to do if you experience a nuisance.
Burning wood and barbecuing
Health risks and disadvantages of burning wood
Burning wood releases harmful substances, such as particulate matter, hydrocarbons, benzene and carbon monoxide. These substances are harmful to everyone, but pose a particular risk to people with respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease, the elderly and children. They are more likely to develop symptoms when they breathe in smoke.
Responsible heating reduces the risk of smoke and odour nuisance, cuts air pollution and protects the health of the user and their neighbours.
- Information from the RIVM on harmful substances in wood smoke
- Information from the Lung Foundation on harmful substances in wood smoke
Safe and responsible heating
By burning fuel correctly and at the right time, you reduce the risk of causing a nuisance and help to create a cleaner environment.
- Tips on lighting a fire outdoors from Milieu Centraal
- Please refer to the heating guide for advice on heating
What should you do if you’re being disturbed?
Are you bothered by smoke or odours from a fire pit, open fire or wood-burning stove in your neighbourhood? Always try to speak to the person using the fire first. Often, a friendly chat is enough to foster understanding and encourage them to adjust their behaviour. You can also refer them to Milieu Centraal for practical tips for burning wood more efficiently.
In principle, barbecuing is permitted anywhere, unless it is specifically stated that it is not allowed. It may also be the case that, for fire safety reasons, the fire service may issue a ban on barbecuing in certain areas for a specific period.
Role of the local authority
There are currently no specific national regulations governing the burning of wood in the Netherlands. As a result, the local authority’s ability to take action against nuisance caused by burning is limited. Moreover, it is often difficult to determine whether such nuisance is actually taking place. That is why it is important to find a solution together.