Rain or shine, as we approach the final days of summer and mark the end of the school holidays, many Brits will be taking full advantage of the upcoming bank holiday weekend to organise barbecues with friends and family.
While grilling burgers and sizzling sausages may seem like a mindless activity for some, experts are warning that having a BBQ at the wrong time or place could result in potential fines of up to £11,000.
To ensure you don’t have to fork out for anything other than pickles this August bank holiday, Samantha Richards, garden gazebo expert at Gazeboshop, has shared with YCB four things to avoid doing when hosting a BBQ.
- Barbecuing in public spaces, including beaches and parks – potential fine of £1,000
Many beaches, parks and woodlands across the country are strictly no BBQ zones due to the dangerous fire and smoke risk they pose.
Fines for BBQs in these areas are usually enforced via Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO), which carry on-the-spot fines of up to £100 and the potential of up to £1,000 and prosecution if the initial fine is not paid.
- Leaving litter from barbeques – potential cost of fine £2,500
Should you find a public space that allows BBQs, you will want to ensure that you take all your rubbish with you. Not doing so could see you pick up a hefty fine.
Councils across the UK issue fixed penalty notices for littering, with the fine amount varying between each locale. However, for those that do not pay the initial fine, the maximum penalties for littering in the UK, should it go to court, are an eye-watering £2,500.
- Noisy celebrations – potential fine of £5,000
While a BBQ is a social event, be mindful of playing music too loud or having the gathering go on too late into the night, as excessive noise could see you fined.
Excessive noise from a home is listed as a Statutory Nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and, if taken to court, comes with a maximum fine of £5,000. Excessive smoke also comes under Statutory Notice and could see a maximum £5,000 fine.
- Causing a fire through negligence – potential fine of £2,500
It is vital that when having a BBQ, you take all necessary precautions to ensure that any fire is contained and no damage is inflicted on private or public property.
Should a fire from your BBQ threaten public or property safety, you could face a fine of £2,500 and prosecution under the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
To avoid this when preparing a BBQ, set up at least 10 feet away from your house or any structures, and ensure it is clear of any overhead obstacles, like low-hanging branches or awnings.
For those getting prepped and ready to have a bank holiday BBQ, Samantha Richards said: “Barbecues can be a fun way to indulge in some delicious food and socialise with loved ones, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid any danger or unwanted fines.
“With the infamous Great British weather coming into play, you may want to cover all bases and invest in a gazebo to keep guests and food dry should it rain.
“It’s worth noting that all BBQing will need to be done outside the gazebos and any other outdoor structure to ensure safety and minimise fire risks.”
