Why your Crawley bonfire could result in a fine of £100

People in Crawley who light bonfires in their gardens could find themselves £100 worse off if they are seen to be causing a nuisance.

The borough council has received numerous complaints about people lighting fires and barbecues, which can cause breathing problems for those with asthma, bronchitis or symptoms of the coronavirus.

Leader Peter Lamb was asked about the problem during his weekly online Q&A.

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While pointing out that the town had ‘probably never had cleaner air’, he said: “It’s not actually possible to ban bonfires. We haven’t been given the power to do that.

“But we do have the ability to investigate if they are causing what’s called a statutory nuisance.”

If those investigations lead to some one being asked to stop lighting fires but they go ahead anyway, the council has the power to issue a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice.

Other than that, its powers are limited, relying on people to be considerate and supportive of each other during the ongoing lock-down.

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Mr Lamb did point out, however, that people living in council homes were not allowed to have bonfires and would be breaching their tenancy agreement if they lit one in their garden.

Gurinder Jhans, cabinet member for environmental services and sustainability, said: “We kindly ask all residents to refrain from having bonfires during this lock-down period.

“It is an important time to take care of each other and to respect what our neighbours require to maintain their health.

“Please use your GREENbin, compost or keep your garden waste safe until the restrictions are lifted.”

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Anyone who feels bonfire smoke has become a nuisance is advised to talk to the person responsible first – while maintaining social distance of two metres – as they may not be aware of the impact their fire is having.

If that does not work, call the Nuisance and Anti-Social Behaviour Team on 01293 438438 or email [email protected] .

Karen Dunn , Local Democracy Reporting Service