A garden incinerator bin lets you burn dry garden waste in a contained steel drum instead of an open bonfire. This guide covers where to put it, what to burn, how to light it and the UK rules worth knowing before you start.
Where to put your incinerator
- Stand it on firm, level ground such as paving, gravel or bare soil.
- Keep it well clear of fences, sheds, hedges, overhanging branches and anything that can catch fire.
- Check the wind direction so smoke blows away from houses, gardens with washing out, and roads.
What you can and can't burn
Suitable: dry prunings, twigs, hedge cuttings, dead leaves and other dry garden waste.
Don't burn: plastics, rubber, tyres, painted or treated wood, foam, or general household rubbish. These give off harmful fumes and are the most likely to cause complaints.
Wet or green material produces far more smoke. Let cuttings dry out for a week or two before burning.
How to light and run it
- Check piles of garden waste for hedgehogs and other wildlife before moving them into the bin.
- Start with a small amount of dry paper and kindling at the bottom, then add drier material gradually.
- Never use petrol, paraffin or other accelerants.
- Use the lid as described in the product instructions.
- Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby and never leave the incinerator unattended.
- Let the ash cool completely before emptying. Cold wood ash can go on the compost heap in small amounts.
UK rules on burning garden waste
In England and Wales there is no general ban on burning garden waste at home, but your council can take action if smoke becomes a statutory nuisance to neighbours. It is also an offence to let smoke drift across a road and endanger traffic. Some councils publish their own guidance, and rules can differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check your local council website if you're unsure.
Businesses such as landscapers and tree surgeons should check their waste obligations with the council or Environment Agency before burning anything on a customer's site.
The Green Guard 125L incinerator
Our Green Guard 125L galvanised garden incinerator bin comes with a lid and raised legs, new and boxed, with free UK delivery. Need several for a site, allotment or business? Send a trade enquiry.