News

Fire danger period still in force

Jan 18, 2024

During the Fire Danger Period, authorities take a zero-tolerance approach to unregistered burn-offs. Photo by Cathy Walker

Despite the recent wet weather, residents of the Northern Country, North East and North Central fire weather districts are reminded that the Fire Danger Period is still in force.

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The CFA declares Fire Danger Periods by municipality during periods of increased fire risk.

This means that there are restrictions and requirements around activities in the open air that have potential to result in an out-of-control fire such as:

driving vehicles through dry vegetation;
using gas powered wildlife scare guns;
welding, grinding and soldering; and
using chainsaws, lawnmowers and farm machinery.

Burning off without a written permit is prohibited and heavy penalties apply. During the Fire Danger Period, authorities take a zero-tolerance approach to unregistered burn-offs.

“We have recently had several of our volunteer brigades called out to attend burn-offs where no permit had been issued,” CFA regional commander Rob Van Dorsser said.

“Despite recent wet conditions, there is still potential for fires to burn out of control. It only takes a couple of hot days for grasslands to dry out and people are reminded of the ongoing risk of grassfires during this period.”

Residents and businesses wanting to use fire or heat sources can visit the Fire Permits Victoria website at https://firepermits.vic.gov.au/ to:

Check if they need a fire permit.
Apply for a fire permit.
Notify authorities that they are using a permit (or by calling 1800 668 511).

Applying for a permit does not guarantee that one will be issued. Where they are issued, the conditions listed in the permit must be strictly adhered to.

For more information about what you can and can’t do during the Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban, visit: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-i