Wood Burners, Stoves, and Open Fires Policy for Angus Council tenants
Consultation has concluded
CONSULTATION UPDATE
Angus Council has approved a new policy regarding the installation and use of wood burners, stoves, open fires, and other open-flued appliances within council-owned properties and tenancies.
This policy does not apply to private homeowners. It applies only to council housing and properties managed by Angus Council.
As a responsible landlord, the council is committed to ensuring all council properties are fitted with energy-efficient, compliant heating systems that are regularly inspected and maintained.
Under the new policy:
- Angus Council will not normally permit the installation or replacement of solid fuel heating systems in its properties
- each application will be considered on its merits, but the default position will be to refuse requests due to environmental and health risks
- in exceptional circumstances, where solid fuel may provide a significantly more cost-effective option than alternatives, an application may be considered following a full assessment and subject to approval.
Where installations are already in place, tenants are responsible for maintaining their own appliances, while Angus Council will maintain any solid fuel systems that are council-owned in line with safety requirements.
You can view the new policy on our website.
We are keen to hear your opinion on the draft Wood burners, stoves, and open fires policy.
Background
The Scottish Government Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019 and the Climate Change Plan set out various actions to help tackle climate change.
Local authorities have been given strict deadlines to meet in relation to improving the energy efficiency of their housing stock. This will reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption.
As a result, Angus Council will no longer allow:
- the installation or replacement of solid fuel heating system
- the opening of an existing flue or old fireplace to install a wood burner or any other solid fuel appliance in our tenants' homes
To meet legal requirements, we aim to move to low and zero-emissions heating systems.
How to have your say
Please read the draft Wood burners, stoves, and open fires policy and take part in the survey below.
What happens next
Your responses will help us shape the final policy document.
The survey closes on 4 February 2025.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete this survey.
