INFORMATION FOR LANDHOLDERS AND FARMERS re FIRE PERMITS
If a Total Fire Ban is in place, you cannot burn…
WHEN ARE FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED? During the Bush Fire Danger Period (1 October to 31 March but this can vary from season to season). If your burn is likely to endanger a building (year round) If the proposed burn is in a Fire and Rescue NSW district (year round).
WHEN ARE FIRE PERMITS NOT REQUIRED? Fire permits are not required for small recreational fires used to cook or barbeque in the open or for reasons such as camping, picnicking or scouting, provided that: The fire is in a permanently constructed fireplace. Clear all combustible materials at least 2 meters away from the fire – The fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS Other restrictions, approvals and/or permits may apply in certain council areas, even when the Bush Fire Danger Period has not been declared. If your burn is for bush fire hazard reduction purposes, you can obtain an environmental approval (Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate) free of charge from the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS). This approval may also cover the clearing of vegetation for bush fire hazard reduction purposes.
If your burn is not for bush fire hazard reduction purposes (for example agricultural burning or burning to remove or clear vegetation), there are two primary types of environmental approval that you may need an approval for:
- Burning native vegetation
- Burning in the open
Fire Permits are automatically suspended during: Total Fire Bans, No Burn Days Fire Permits are typically suspended at a Fire Danger Rating of High or above.
Fire Permits can also be suspended at any time due to local conditions or ongoing fire activity. Landholders should consult with NSW Rural Fire Service, and/or Local Council for further information prior to using fire on your property.
SAFE BURNING CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU LIGHT UP:
- Check you are allowed to burn in your area. Contact your nearest NSW RFS Fire Control Centre to confirm.
- GET A FIRE PERMIT: They are free and easy to get. NOTIFY your nearest NSW RFS Fire Control Centre at least 24 hours before you plan to burn on 1800 820 533 Monday – Friday OR apply online by scanning the QR Code below.
- NOTIFY YOUR NEIGHBOURS: You must notify all adjoining neighbours at least 24 hrs before you burn.
- ON THE DAY Check and monitor weather conditions Check the Fire Danger Rating at: rfs.nsw.gov.au/fdr, on the Fires Near Me/Hazards Near Me mobile app or on the roadside signs. Check if permits have been suspended due to a Total Fire Ban, No Burn Day or if the Fire Danger Rating is above High.
You will be caught – “Police were called to a local incident recently and a $2200 fine was issued for lighting a fire on a Total Fire Ban Day.” Do not do it! Clarence Town and Flat Tops Brigades have barely had a day off through November and early December with local call outs and assisting at the Bulahdelah and Redhead fires. A massive effort from our volunteers. Thank You!
NSW Rural Fire Service Website
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au – www.myfireplan.com.au
Bush Fire Information Line
1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
PREPARE, ACT, SURVIVE.
Stay safe until next time, Di Bennett OAM
Lower Hunter Zone Community Engagement Team
New South Wales Rural Fire Service
