Rising smoke complaints spark backyard burning reminder for Christchurch

Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) is reminding Ōtautahi  Christchurch residents about outdoor burning rules after a recent increase in smoke complaints across the city. 

Environment Canterbury received more than 20 complaints in the last three weekends, largely relating to the burning of household rubbish and other materials in backyard fires in urban Christchurch suburbs. 

In Christchurch city, outdoor burning is generally not permitted. This includes the use of fire pits, braziers and chimineas. 

“When people burn rubbish or other unsuitable material in urban areas, the smoke can quickly impact neighbours,” Principal Compliance Support Advisor, Lauren Hamilton said. 

“In built-up areas, even small fires can create nuisance smoke that drifts beyond the property boundary.” 

Outdoor cooking activities such as barbecues, pizza ovens, hāngī or umu are allowed, provided smoke does not travel beyond the boundary or become offensive or objectionable. 

Environment Canterbury is reminding residents that: 

• Burning household rubbish is not allowed 
• Outdoor burning is not permitted in urban Christchurch unless you’re cooking
• Smoke must not be offensive or objectionable beyond the property boundary 

“If smoke is affecting your neighbours, it’s likely to be a breach of the rules,” Lauren said. 

“There are better options than backyard burning, such as council rubbish collection, green waste facilities, or composting. These help protect air quality and keep neighbourhoods pleasant for everyone.”  

Residents are encouraged to check the outdoor burning rules before lighting any fire. 

👉Find out more about what is and isn't allowed when it comes to outdoor burning here