Air quality

If smoke, dust or other air pollution is affecting you, you can report it to us. We investigate complaints about

• smoke from burning garden waste
• dark smoke from trade or industrial premises
• dust and grit from construction, demolition, renovation and other industrial activities

Before reporting a problem, make sure there is no immediate danger. If a fire is out of control or poses a risk to people or property, contact the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Burning garden waste

There is no law preventing people from burning garden waste on their property. However, smoke from bonfires can become a nuisance and may affect people's health and wellbeing.

If smoke from burning garden waste is causing a problem, you can report it to us and we will investigate.

For advice on bonfires, see our Bonfires page.

Dark smoke

It is against the law for trade or industrial premises to produce dark smoke. It is also illegal to burn trade or industrial waste if this creates dark smoke.

If you see dark smoke coming from a business or industrial site, you can report it to us.

Dust and grit

Dust and grit from industrial sites, quarries, waste facilities, construction work, demolition projects or building renovations can affect nearby homes and businesses. It may irritate your eyes, nose and throat and can cause breathing difficulties for some people.

If dust or grit from a site is causing a problem in your area, you can report it to us. We will review the information you provide and investigate where appropriate.

Report a problem

Use the relevant reporting form to tell us about:

• smoke from burning garden waste
• dark smoke from trade or industrial premises
• dust and grit from a site