Many different locations may be smoke controlled areas so therefore the solid fuel appliance must be either:
An 'exempt appliance' which you can only use specified fuel that can be found in the appliance instructions.
OR
Using an 'authorised smokeless fuel'
If you fail to follow these two rules then it can result in fine of up to £1,000 for each offence.
Legislation for Smoke Control Areas
In England the government has to decide on whether to authorise smokeless fuels or exempt appliances. In Scotland and Wales, the different parliaments have this kind of power. A separate legislation is in place in Northern Ireland, the Clean Air Order 1981. It is very important that the fuels burnt in smoke control areas have been authorised in regulations and the exempt appliances have been made exempt by an order made or signed by the appropriate minster.
Authorised Smokeless Fuels
When using a stove within a smoke control area you must burn an authorised smokeless fuel. The most popular choice is anthracite. Exempted appliances are tested so that they become DEFRA approved. This means that they meet the correct standards regarding the emissions when burning non authorised smokeless fuels such as wood. Firewood can only be used with an exempt appliance as it isn't an authorised smokeless fuel.
When choosing wood to burn in your stove, it is very important to get seasoned wood that has either been air dried or kiln dried because this will provide you with the highest efficiency. You can either look for HETAS certified wood or wood that has a moisture content of under 25%. The moisture content is not a legal requirement but to get the best of your wood and stove it is advised that you choose wood that is under this amount.
Exempt Appliances
These kinds of appliances have been exempted under the Clean Air Act 1993 or Clean Air Order 1981 (Northern Ireland). They has been thoroughly tested so that you are able to burn unauthorised fuel and it will only emit a minimal smoke quantity.