As from April 1, 2024, the Bush Fire Danger Period ceased across the Albury City, Greater Hume, Federation and Berrigan Local Government Areas (LGA’S). There is no longer a requirement to register for a fire permit for agricultural burning, though the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is advising landholders and managers to still ensure they have undertaken proper preparations before conducting any burn-offs on their property.
NSW RFS Operational Officer Jason Bortolazzo said landholders are encouraged to proactively reduce fuel loads on their property while ensuring burns are conducted safely and legally.
“Every landholder has a responsibility to prevent fire from spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences for people who light fires and leave them unattended,” Operational Officer Bortolazzo said.
“A person who lights a fire without the required approvals or notice is guilty of an offence, with penalties including large fines and/or imprisonment.
“History has shown that problems occur when people do not adequately supervise fires and an escaped hazard reduction can be very difficult for firefighters to contain.”
Operational Officer Bortolazzo said residents must take current conditions and weather forecasts into consideration before starting a burn.
“The primary concern should always be safety, so never conduct a burn if conditions are not suitable,” he said.
“There are alternatives to burning, including hand clearing, mowing, or slashing areas around key assets on the property.
NSW RFS members can provide advice about fire permits, hazard reduction certificates, environmental approvals, weather forecasts and how best to prepare and conduct a burn.
“The NSW RFS has a number of publications available through local brigades or Fire Control Centres, which can assist landowners in planning and carrying out fire related activities safely,” Operational Officer Bortolazzo said.
All land holders are further reminded to remember to notify neighbours and local fire authority 24 hours before starting a hazard reduction burn, which can be done either calling the Southern Border District Office Fire Control Centre on 02 6051 1511 or online at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP/burn-notifications.
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