Restrictions, permits and legal responsibilities

Some farming activities are restricted during the Fire Danger Period. Permits may be required.

• See:
  • Operating machinery, equipment & vehicles
  • Burning off

The Fire Danger Period is declared by CFA once an area has reached a condition of high bushfire danger. Typically this is over the summer period of November through to April but this varies from area to area.

Local councils may also place their own restrictions on using fires.

Permits

You need a permit to:

• Clear roadside fuel (except mowing)
• Remove native vegetation
• Burn off during the Fire Danger Period
• Use fire in a fire protected area
• Operate cutting and welding equipment on a Total Fire Ban day

On Total Fire Ban Days, any permits issued by a municipal fire prevention officer are automatically suspended.

If your agricultural business needs to undertake essential works on a Total Fire Ban day, you must apply for a Section 40 permit from CFA.

• More about permits

Penalites

Failure to comply with restrictions or permits can result in fines of up to $5000 and/or 12 months imprisonment. It is up to you to check whether or not your local council has local laws in place for lighting fires and burning rubbish.

Your legal responsibilities

Under legislation, landowners and managers must:

Protect staff, visitors and family from fire
You are responsible for your safety, as well as the safety of people living, working or visiting your property.
Prevent fires
Minimise the risk of unplanned fires when operating machinery, vehicles and equipment Keep private powerlines in good condition, clear of vegetation.
Stop fires spreading
Extinguish unplanned fires on your land or call Triple Zero (000) for help Control and report planned burns and burn offs Provide access to property and equipment for firefighters Report any fire burning in the Fire Danger Period.