Fire Permits

Bush Fire Danger Period and Fire Permits

A Fire Permit is required for burning activities during the Bush Fire Danger Period. Fire Permits help ensure fire is used safely and minimise the danger to you, your property and the community.

The key things to remember:

• • You need a fire permit if it's the Bush Fire Danger Period.

  • Fire permits are issued by local volunteers and it will take a minimum of seven (7) days to obtain a fire permit.

  • Just because it's the Bush Fire Danger Period doesn't mean you can't use fire - but there are restrictions to ensure fire is used safely.

  • Getting a permit is free and easy. Contact your local Fire Control Centre or SMS the Brigade phone with name, address, and date you wish to burn.

  • A Permit Officer will then get in contact with you, and arrange a mutually suitable time for a site inspection to occur. Permits will not be issued where;

    • A suitable water source is not available to control the fire

    • The proposed burn exceeds 1.5m tall and/or 2-3 meters in diameter

    • Where the material is green (not seasoned)

    • Where building materials and other foreign objects are present

    • Where the proposed burn endangers buildings or property

  • There are heavy penalties if you don't follow restrictions or rules.

    • All of these restrictions and rules will be explained to you when the site inspection is undertaken.

    • It is your responsibility to ensure you comply with any fire permit restrictions.

  • Permits may be cancelled by an Officer of the NSW RFS at any time.

Please note that other restrictions, approvals and/or permits may apply to council areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period has not been declared. For example, backyard burning is not permitted in many suburban areas due to Environmental Regulations and Council or Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) permission is required.

Check these guides for more information on permits and reducing hazards on your property:

• Before You Light That Fire - information on permits and steps you need to take before using fire on your property

• Can I or Can't I - a simple guide to restrictions such as during Total Fire Bans

Non-Bush Fire Danger Period and Fire Permits

A Fire Permit is not required for burning activities outside the Bush Fire Danger Period. How ever it is a legislative requirement to provide a minimum of 24 hours notice (four (4) days is preferred) to your local Fire Control Centre of your intention to. The fire authority will record the information and monitor weather conditions.

You must also notify any adjoining neighbours (including those separated by a road, lane or waterway) at least 24 hours before burning. Your neighbours may be exposed to the smoke from your burn and may need to make preparations to avoid any negative impacts (medical conditions, impacts on sensitive crops, livestock and pets).

IF YOU DO NOT PROVIDE NOTIFICATION, YOUR NEIGHBOURS MAY CALL EMERGENCY 000 TO REPORT YOUR FIRE AND THE LOCAL FIRE AUTHORITY MAY TAKE ACTION.