About Air Pollution, Fuel Regulations

Smoky coal ban

A ban on the burning of smoky coal applies to the whole city and county area of Dublin. All bagging operators supplying smoky coal for residential use must register with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on an annual basis. All fuel suppliers whose main business is in smoky coal must also register with the EPA.

Dublin City Council's Air Quality and Noise Control Unit maintains a presence on the streets of Dublin in order to enforce current legislation. This involves carrying out inspections of fuel yards, fuel vehicles, shops and garage forecourts. Dublin City Council reports on its inspections to the EPA.

Co-operation between members of the public and fuel suppliers is crucial for ensuring that air quality remains good in the city. If you do witness the sale of smoky coal (Polish, Texan, Premium etc) in your area, please contact Dublin City Council Customer Services T: 01 222 2222 with details of the vehicle, registration number, shop address etc. If a neighbour is causing a nuisance to you by burning smoky coal, please report the problem the customer services team also. 

The local authorities will make returns for their inspections to the EPA also. The links to the background and to the changes to the Regulations and the consultation process can be found at the Environmental Protection Agency website.