Burning of Waste
The exemption to farmers, under specific circumstances, to dispose of certain forms of agricultural waste by burning is no longer in place
Regulations that specifically prohibit the disposal of household and commercial waste by uncontrolled burning, (so-called "Backyard Burning") were signed into law on the 27th July, 2009.
The Waste Management (Prohibition of Waste Disposal by Burning) Regulations 2009 explicitly make the disposal of waste by uncontrolled burning (including any such burning occurring in a domestic fireplace) an offence under both the Air Pollution Act, 1987 and the Waste Management Acts 1996-2015.
However, the regulations contain an exemption that permits the use of untreated or uncontaminated wood waste as fuel in garden barbecues, for the sole purpose of cooking food. In addition, local authorities also have the power to grant certain local cultural events and activities an exemption under the regulations, as may be deemed appropriate.
The exemption to farmers, under specific circumstances, to dispose of certain forms of agricultural waste by burning is no longer in place.
Please note that failure to comply with the Regulations is an offence, and that fines of up to €5,000 may be imposed upon summary conviction in the District Court.
Burning Waste Is Bad For The Environment!
The burning of domestic, garden or commercial waste may appear to provide a convenient and cheap method of waste disposal, which causes little or no damage to the environment. However, this is not the case.
Uncontrolled low-temperature burning generates several types of pollutants, that can potentially:
- Aggravate respiratory (asthma, bronchitis) and heart illnesses.
- Lead to kidney and liver damage.
- Cause nausea and headaches.
- Contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and global warming.
If you experience any illegal waste burning activity please contact the Enforcement Section, either via e-mail at info@dlrcoco.ie, or by telephone at (01) 205 4700.