No, Wood Burners are not being Banned
Before we dive into the details, lets clarify:
The Government is not planning to ban wood burners.
- The focus right now is on a consultation which was released on 22nd January 2026 and the proposals come as part of the wider Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 and ongoing efforts to improve air quality across the country.
- Looking at tightening standards for new appliances placed on the market – not removing existing appliances or restricting responsible domestic burning. All proposed changes are open for public consultation for you to have your say until midday on 19th March 2026. Extract from Gov Website* details at end of this article ( Consult on new measures that cut emissions from domestic combustion, whilst minimising the impact on those that need to burn and respecting traditional celebratory festivals such as Bonfire Night and Diwali. Responsible: Defra)
- What’s Being Proposed: A Stricter Emissions Limit for New Stoves of 1g/hour + 0.1g per 0.3kw output. The Current limit for appliances exempt in Smoke Control Areas: 5g/hour + 0.1 g per 0.3kw output.
- Around 70% of appliances tested since 2018 already meet the new proposed limit. As we already have the Eco-Design 2022 which made wood stoves much cleaner and efficient.
- Existing stoves and those already on the market would not be affected
- A 3-5 year grace period would apply if limits were adopted so stoves already on shelves would be exempt if the rule comes into force.
- Nothing changes for existing wood burner owners, but best practices include.
- Using a Hetas Registered Installer
- Following correct operation guidance
- Burning Ready to Burn Dry wood
- Avoiding slumbering and waste wood
- Regular sweeping and servicing.
Remember All proposed changes are open for public consultation for you to have your say until midday on 19th March 2026. Extract from Gov Website Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) 2025 - GOV.UK
