People who use log burners in their homes could end up with a fine of up to £300 after a rule change - and could even get a criminal record.
Stricter emissions regulations state that new stoves in homes in "smoke control areas" are only allowed to emit 3g of smoke per hour. This is down from the previous limit of 5g per hour.
The rules, which are part of the Government's new 25-year environmental plan, cover a majority of England's towns and cities. On-the-spot fines can be issued to anyone found to be disobeying them, reports BBC News.
