Experts have warned that using a firepit could see you fined up to £5,000 - as people across the UK look for ways to keep their outdoor spaces warm and cosy this autumn. Firepits and bonfires that produce excessive smoke or ash may be classed as a statutory nuisance, with penalties of up to £5,000.

They could fall foul of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which states " smoke emitted from premises so as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance; fumes or gases emitted from premises so as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance" is classed as a statutory nuisance.

According to the fire service: "T here are no laws against having a garden fire or bonfire, but there are laws for the nuisance they can cause. If you feel that neighbours are causing an environmental nuisance, please

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