Wood Heaters

You need Council’s permission before you install a wood heater in your house. A fee must be paid when you apply.

How to apply:

1. Complete an M4 Activity Application form PDF, 45.39 KB
2. Attach a to-scale floorplan showing the position of the wood heater
3. Attach the specifications of the heater you want to install. You can get these from the supplier or manufacturer of the heater
4. Return the form and attachments to Council in person or by post.

Payment options:

• Pay in person by credit or debit card, cash or cheque at our Customer Service Centre during business hours.
• Post a cheque with your application, payable to ‘Wollongong City Council’. Our address is shown at the bottom of this page.

If you have any questions call us on (02) 4227 7111.

Smoke from wood heaters can be a hazard for people inside your home, your neighbours and the environment.

Some ways you can reduce smoke pollution from your heater include:

• Maintain a bright flame and don’t let your fire smoulder
• Increase the air supply if your chimney is smoking
• Burn only dry, aged hardwood. Fresh cut wood should be stored for at least 8-12 months before it is burned.
• Store wood in a dry, covered area that’s well ventilated.
• Never burn treated wood, painted wood, driftwood or rubbish
• Use several small logs rather than one large log, and stack them loosely
• When lighting a cold heater, use lots of dry kindling
• Have your chimney cleaned every year to keep air flowing well.

You can report problems caused by smoke from a neighbour’s wood heater to Council as an air pollution issue.

Call us on (02) 4227 7111 during business hours, or use the button below.

Please note, you will be asked to log in or create an account to report an issue online.