You Are Here : Home / BUSHFIRE DANGER PERIOD ENDS IN NORTHERN TABLELANDS

BUSHFIRE DANGER PERIOD ENDS IN NORTHERN TABLELANDS

Published on 27 March 2024

A MESSAGE FROM THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is advising landowners that the Bush Fire Danger Period within the Northern Tablelands area will cease Monday, 1 April 2024.

This means that from 1 April fire permits will no longer be required for burning in the open on rural properties located within Glen Innes, Inverell and Tenterfield Local Government Areas.

Inspector Scott Mack, District Manager – Northern Tablelands said, “the message to landholders is to take the opportunity throughout the coming winter months to try and get any necessary burning completed on your property. With the recent trend in fire seasons beginning earlier in the year and summer fire weather conditions becoming more unpredictable landowners should not rely on being able to burn in summer. Ensure all your pile burning and hazard reduction activities are scheduled into the winter land management activities for your property.”

“The cooler months are where all the preparation work should occur to ensure you are in the best possible position for the next fire season. The RFS is able to carry out property assessments, assist you with your Bushfire Survival Plan, prepare burns plans and arrange for qualified fire crew to undertake the burn on your property.”

Although fire permits are no longer required anyone intending to light a fire must notify neighbouring landowners and their local fire authority at least 24 hours before burning. This requirement exists throughout the entire year. The preferred method for notifying the RFS is via our new online portal which is accessible via the NSW Rural Fire Service website.

Before lighting any fires this coming autumn and winter please ensure you have completed the following:

Notify the NSW RFS by visiting www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ notify or contacting 1300 141 119 at least 24 hours before lighting
Notify all adjoining neighbours at least 24 hours before lighting.
Delay the burn if concerning winds are forecast.
Create proper fire breaks and clear around the perimeter of piles of timber.•Have adequate water resources and firefighting equipment on hand.
Supervise the fire at all times.
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if your fire escapes.

For more information contact Northern Tablelands RFS on 02 6739 6900 or contact the State Duty Media Officer on 9898 1855.

For current incidents or major fire updates visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au