NEW BUILDS: RE-THINKING THE BAN ON WOOD BURNING STOVES

From April 2024, changes to building regulations mean that new buildings will not be allowed to use direct emission heating systems (i.e. those that burn fossil fuels) and will instead need to use alternatives such as heat pumps and heat networks. These changes also apply to some conversions to existing buildings where there is a change in occupation or use, but only where use of an alternative heating system is reasonably practicable.

These changes to building regulations do not apply to alterations to or extensions of buildings constructed before 1 April 2024 or in accordance with a building warrant applied for before that date. There are also exceptions for emergency heating and heating provided solely for the purpose of frost protection.

Some rural and island communities raised concerns about the reliance on biomass and wood burning stoves and the lack of availability of alternative heating systems. In May 2024, the Scottish Government confirmed that it is reviewing the changes to building regulations to address these concerns.

See our briefing note for more information about energy performance certificates for properties in Scotland which includes a summary of the Scottish Government’s proposals to make new laws around heating systems and energy efficiency improvements.