Wood heaters

Well operated wood heaters can provide an efficient way to heat your home and should produce heat without smoke. However, wood heaters and open fire places that are not operated well can add to outdoor air pollution and cause problems for your neighbours.

Wood heaters are not prohibited. Even with the correct operation of a wood heater there will be some smoke that may be within acceptable levels.

Wood smoke contains many different chemicals, some of which are toxic to humans and when breathed in and can cause physical discomfort and health problems for people with respiratory illnesses, including children and the elderly.

Is your chimney operating correctly?

Correct operation

If your wood heater is operating correctly your chimney will emit little or no smoke.

Ensure the:

• Air intake is open to allow sufficient oxygen
• Firebox is stacked correctly
• Wood is dry

Note, your chimney should smoke for no more than 5-10 minutes after lighting or refuelling.

Incorrect operation

If your chimney is smoky there is something wrong. 

Possible issues include:

• The air intake is closed down
• There is not enough kindling
• The firewood is green
• The firebox is too full
• The wood is chemically treated or painted

For more information on wood heaters and your health and troubleshooting chimney issues, visit the Department of Water and Environment Regulations' BurnWise website.

Do you have a concern about wood smoke in your neighbourhood? The City recommends you first approach the person causing the issue to explain how it is affecting you. Often they may not realise that they are disturbing other residents. 

If you wish to have your complaint formally investigated by City, you will need to submit a Smoke Investigation Request. The request will need to include a completed Smoke Investigation Checklist and a completed Smoke Nuisance Log Sheet. These forms are found below.