Waste Services
Sale of Bituminous or “Smoky” Coal
Regulations governing the sale of coal were first introduced in September 1990 in order to combat the serious smog problem that existed in Dublin at that time. The regulations prohibited the sale and supply of bituminous or “smoky” coal within the Dublin city boundary and throughout most of County Dublin.
The ban had an immediate effect in significantly reducing levels of sulphur dioxide, and soon resulted in the successful elimination of smog across Dublin. The Regulations have subsequently been amended to extend the prohibition on the sale of bituminous coal to most other major town and cities in Ireland.
Under the 2011 Marketing, Sale & Distribution of Fuels 
(Pdf. 109kb) Regulations, coal bagging operators and bituminous coal suppliers are now legally required to register with the EPA, and maintain relevant records in order to verify their compliance with the new reduced suphur content levels of 0.7%.
Further detailed information for fuel merchants may be found in the following guidance document Revised Guidelines For Regulatory Compliance
(Pdf. 73kb).
If you are aware of any incidents involving the sale or supply of bituminous coal (e.g. Polish or Texan) from a shop, depot or delivery vehicle within the Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown area, please report the matter to the Environmental Enforcement Section at Tel: 2047 954 or e-mail wasteenforcement@dlrcoco.ie.