When buying a wood heater or open fireplace
If you're thinking about buying a wood heater or open fireplace, make sure that:
- the wood heater is certified to Australian Standards (AS) 4013 and 4012
- you get a licensed person to install it, in line with the Building Act 1993
- your flue height is correct relative to the buildings around you.
Use the Environmental Protection Australia website to find out more.
You must make sure your open fireplace or wood heater doesn't produce excessive amounts of smoke. This can harm your neighbours and the environment.
Maintain your wood heater
Getting the best from your wood heater or open fireplace is easy.
- Have your heater professionally checked and cleaned before the weather gets cold enough to use it.
- Use the right timber. Always burn dry, well-seasoned wood. Avoid burning old or waste timber like building and fence materials, offcuts from building or railway sleepers. These may be contaminated or treated with a preservative agent.
- Learn to use your wood heater or open fireplace correctly. For tips on efficient burning of firewood, visit EPA Victoria or Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.
- Once your fire's going, go outside and check the chimney for smoke. If there's excessive smoke, something is wrong with your heater or fireplace, or how you are using it. Get it checked out.
Excessive woodsmoke
If you're worried about how much smoke is coming from your neighbour’s wood heater, talk to your neighbour first.
They may not know there's an issue.
If you're having problems solving the problem, you can contact the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria.
They offer free mediation services.
If you still can't resolve the issue, call Council’s Health Services team on 9298 8000.
We aim to contact you within 3 business days after receiving your complaint.
Need help?
Contact us and we will come back to you.
Or call our Customer Service team on 9298 8000.
