The use of residential solid fuel is a significant source of air pollution, notably ‘particulate matter’ or smoke. To maintain and improve good air quality standards and to ensure that our air quality will be healthy and clean, new solid fuel regulations (S.I 260 of 2020) have been introduced.

From 1st September 2020 Ashbourne Town and Environs will become a Low Smoke Zone under the Air Pollution Act (Marketing, Sale, Distribution and Burning of Specified Fuels) (Amendment) Regulations 2020. The current Low Smoke Zones of Navan, and Laytown-Bettystown remain unchanged.

From that date it will be illegal to burn bituminous coal (Smoky Coal) within the Low Smoke Zone. Information and a map showing the specified areas is available on www.dccae.gov.ie and can also be obtained from Meath County Council or on the website 

Smokeless coal, turf/peat briquettes and wood are deemed to be smokeless fuels and are acceptable.

Coal merchants and retail outlets will not be allowed to display or sell bituminous coal within this Low Smoke Zone.

Remember: If you live in a low smoke zone –

• Only burn smokeless solid fuel products
• If you have a complaint about smokey emissions contact -

Meath County Council at 046 9097200

Email environment@meathcoco.ie

Out of hours contact the EPA at LoCall number 1850 365 121