Natural England

Changes to the law affecting heather and grass burning in England were introduced on 1 October. The Heather and Grass Burning Regulations were updated to cover the basic legal requirements that burners should meet. The new Regulations aim to cut red-tape for burners whilst introducing new protection for carbon rich soils.

An updated Heather and Grass Burning Code, developed in consultation with experts from farming and game shooting organisations, has also been launched. The Code aims to describe a standard of good practice and raise awareness of the new laws, helping burners to burn safely and in ways which can benefit wildlife. Best Practice Guides, offering specific advice in more detail than the Code, have also been produced.

General Information

• Q&A for the updated Heather and Grass Burning Code and Regulations 2007
• Heather and Grass Burning Regulations and Code revised - Press Release (2 August 2007)

The Code and Best Practice Guides

• Heather & Grass Burning Code 2007 [143 kB]
• Best Practice Guide 1 - How to produce a Burning Plan
• Best Practice Guide 2 - Safety of People and Property (available soon)
• Best Practice Guide 3 - Identifying Sensitive Areas
• Best Practice Guide 4 - Burning Lowland Heathlands
• Best Practice Guide 5 - Burning Reedbeds
• Best Practice Guide 6 - Burning Agricultural Land (available soon)
• Best Practice Guide 7 - Burning in the South West (available soon)
• Best Practice Guide 8 - Identifying and managing Heather Beetle damage (available soon)

Legislation

• THe Heather and Grass etc. Burning (England) Regulations 2007 (Ministry of Justice)
• Enforcement policy statement for the Regulations
• Application form for burning contrary to the Regulations
• Application form for burning railway land contrary to the Regulations

For help with licences, contact your local regional office.