About the Fire Danger Period

4 min read

The Fire Danger Period in Victoria is when the CFA bans most open‑air fires to prevent bushfires. It’s declared per municipality based on conditions, can run from October to May, and includes legal restrictions and penalties for breaches.

Summary

  • The Fire Danger Period (FDP) restricts the use of fire outdoors during the fire season to help prevent fires starting.
  • CFA declares the Fire Danger Period for each municipality during the fire season.
  • Fires can only be lit during the Fire Danger Period with a fire permit.
  • A Total Fire Ban day can be declared any time of the year and no fires can be lit without a special permit.

What is the Fire Danger Period?

The Fire Danger Period (FDP) is when CFA restricts the use of fire in the community. This is to help prevent fires from starting.

Who is affected?

People living in country Victoria and the outer metropolitan suburbs of Melbourne. The Fire Danger Period takes effect by municipality.

When is it declared?

CFA declares the Fire Danger Period for each municipality (shire or council) at different times in the lead up to the fire season. It depends on the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and other local conditions. The Fire Danger Period may be declared as early as October in some municipalities, and typically remains in place until the fire danger lessens, which could be as late as May.

Check whether the Fire Danger Period is in force in your area.


Fire restrictions during the Fire Danger Period

Once the Fire Danger Period has been declared, fire restrictions come into force. This means you cannot light a fire in the open air unless you have a permit or comply with certain requirements.

If you don't obtain a permit, you could be breaking the law and may be prosecuted.

Find out more about restrictions and what you can and can't do during the Fire Danger Period.

Other types of fire restrictions

Local municipalities (councils or shires) may have their own local laws in relation to lighting fires. Contact your local council to find out what local laws may be in place.

Note: The local laws may be in place 12 months of the year.

Burning off during the Fire Danger Period

You need a permit to burn-off during the Fire Danger Period. You must also notify Triple Zero Victoria of your burn-off as contained in your permit. Otherwise brigades will be called out unnecessarily.

Find out more information about applying for a fire permit.

Total Fire Ban days

Total Fire Bans are different to the Fire Danger Period.

A Total Fire Ban day can be declared at any time throughout the year. No fires are to be lit in the open air on Total Fire Ban Days unless you have a special permit.

Check Total Fire Bans across Victoria for further information.

 

Page last updated: Tuesday, 6 October 2026 11:34:55 AM