The burning of commercial waste can affect local air quality, cause a nuisance and harm people’s health.

Dark smoke emissions from open burning on industrial or trade premises, including demolition sites, agricultural land or any other land used in connection with a trade or business is prohibited by the Clean Air Act 1993. The offence carries a penalty of £20,000.

In addition, if smoke, fume, smell or fallout from a fire causes a nuisance, then an abatement notice can be served under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. It is an offence to contravene such a notice.