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Clean Air Act Approval for Chimney Heights
To protect against high concentrations of air pollutants at ground level, the Clean Air Act 1993 allows Local Authorities to control the height of chimneys serving industrial processes.
Under section 14 of the Act, unless the height of the chimney has been approved by the local authority and any conditions attached to approval adhered to, it is an offence to cause or knowingly permit a furnace to be used to:
- burn pulverised fuel
- burn at a rate of 45.4 kg or more an hour any other solid matter or
- burn at a rate equivalent to 366.4 kW or more any liquid or gaseous matter
The theory behind this is to ensure that emissions from chimneys exit at high levels to aid dispersion and dilution. It also limits the effect of gravity from bringing high concentrations of grit, dust, soot and gases down to ground level.
North Hertfordshire District Council must consider an application for approval for chimney height for a furnace and give a written decision within 28 days of receipt, unless an extension to this period has been mutually agreed.
In addition, certain industrial processes are regulated by the Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations 2000 within which are provisions for calculating chimney heights.
Contact the Environmental Protection Team if you wish to discuss the practical application of this legislation or apply for Clean Air Act Approval.
Contact Details
Please contact the Environmental Protection team via the Customer Service Centre on 01462 474000 or at service@north-herts.gov.uk.
Environmental Protection Team
North Hertfordshire District Council
Council Offices
Gernon Road
Letchworth Garden City
Herts
SG6 3JF
