Christchurch - nuisance from smoke and bonfires

Lighting a bonfire can cause nuisance to your neighbours especially if it is a nice sunny day with washing out and windows open. Be considerate and warn your neighbours before you light your bonfire so it causes the least amount of annoyance.

If you have a complaint about a bonfire being held, approach the person responsible and explain the problem, they may not be aware of the distress they are causing.

If a bonfire is continuous, you can report the nuisance online. Alternatively, contact the Environmental Health Department on 01202 495 045 who will investigate your complaint.

Do you need to have a bonfire?

There are other environmentally friendly ways to dispose of your garden refuse without having to burn it.

Composting

When starting a compost bin it is important to ensure that it is fully enclosed and fitted with galvanised wire mesh at the base before placing it on the ground, and that only vegetable matter/garden refuse is added to it. This will prevent rats and mice from being attracted into your garden, and help prevent them from tunnelling into your compost bin, which will cause a potential health hazard. For more information on composting, and for details of bins to buy contact our recycling team on 01202 495005

Garden waste bags

Garden waste can be disposed of by placing it in Christchurch Borough Council paper sacks that can be bought for 36p each from the council as well as a number of shops in the area. Only waste put in bags which have been bought from the council and have the council logo on will be collected. For further information on garden waste bags please contact our waste disposal team on 01202 495062.

Household Recycling Centre - Wilverley Road

Garden waste can be taken to the recycling centre at Wilverley Road in Somerford. From here it will be collected, composted, and then offered for sale at garden centres around the area.