15 April 2023

The unrestricted burning season has commenced.

Reducing fuel increases the chances of your property surviving a bushfire. The more fuel available to a bushfire, the hotter the fire can burn and the harder it is to control. Flammable material such as leaf litter, fallen branches, dead grasses and shrubs provide fuel for fire, allowing it to grow more quickly and burn at higher temperatures. This increases the likelihood of damage to your property, neighbouring properties and the environment. In comparison, reduced fuel levels assist not only in reducing how quickly a fire can spread, but it also reduces its spotting distance (how far the fire can jump).

Should you intend to burn, please continue to monitor weather conditions both pre and post burning, ensure that all burning is closely monitored and fully extinguished and do not burn when a Total Fire Ban is in place. 

The Landowner/Occupier is always responsible and liable for the safe implementation of all burning on their land.

During the Unrestricted Period, you should continue to follow the below guidelines -

• Register your burn with DFES on 9395 9209
• Notify Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions on 9688 6000 or 0417 182 618 if the burn is going to be conducted within 3km of a nature reserve.
• Notify your neighbours.
• Ensure smoke does not impact roads/traffic and townsites.
• Ensure firebreaks are maintained before burning.
• Ensure sufficient firefighting resources remain on site for the duration of the burn.

For more information on conducting a planned burn visit here. 

If you have any questions, please contact your local Fire Control Officer.