🔥 Firewood: regulatory framework and compliance guarantees

1. French firewood regulations

Since 1st September 2022, the sale of firewood to private individuals is governed by the decree no. 2022-446 of 30 March 2022 and the’Order of 30 March 2022 relating to the marketing of ready-to-use“ or ”ready-to-burn“ wood”.
The aim of these regulations is to guarantee consumers safe, high-quality wood that respects the environment, while reducing emissions of fine particles from combustion.

Professionals are now obliged to provide clear and verifiable information on the quality of the wood they sell, including :

  • Species (oak, beech, hornbeam, ash, etc.)
  • The length of the logs
  • Humidity levels
  • Volume sold (in stere, apparent m³, or equivalent)
  • The origin of wood
  • The status of drying :
    • Dry or “ready-to-use” wood : humidity ≤ 23 %
    • Wood for drying : humidity > 23 %

2. Ready-to-burn« wood»

The term «ready-to-burn wood» (or «dry wood») can only be used if the wood meets the criteria laid down in the aforementioned order, i.e. :

  • Moisture less than or equal to 23 %, measured on gross mass.
  • Sheltered, ventilated storage prior to delivery.
  • Mandatory statement on the invoice or delivery note:
    • “Ready-to-use wood” or “wood for drying”.

This distinction is mandatory on all invoices, to inform the consumer about the real quality of the product purchased.

3. Quality labels and standards

Some suppliers are voluntarily committed to a certification process, a guarantee of quality and transparency:

  • NF Solid biofuels Compliance with standard NF EN ISO 17225-5.
  • Label France Bois Bûche Local, well-dried wood from sustainably managed forests.

These labels are not compulsory, but they do represent a additional guarantee for the consumer and for the sustainability of the sector.

4. Why choose dry wood?

A damp wood burns poorly, clogs the flue, encourages the formation of bistre and reduces the efficiency of the stove or chimney.
Conversely, a well-dried wood insurance :

  • Complete, cleaner combustion,
  • Better energy performance,
  • A significant reduction in particulate emissions,
  • Extended flue life.

5. Invoicing and compulsory information

All purchases of firewood must be accompanied by a invoice comprising :

  • Seller's name and address,
  • Delivery date,
  • Product designation : “Wood for drying or ready-to-use wood,
  • Essence, length, volume, moisture content,
  • Unit price and total incl. VAT,
  • Applicable VAT rate (5,5 % for domestic use).

This transparency protects the consumer and ensures complete traceability of the fuel.