By Esther Lauaki
Permits are required for planned burn-offs, even when they’re outside the official fire danger period – that’s the word from Wyndham council to residents.
Community safety portfolio holder Kim McAliney said that although fire danger was reduced during the cooler months, grass remained dry.
“We are just coming out of months of heat and little rainfall, so there is plenty of dry fuel on the ground that could ignite and spread wide if a fire gets out of hand,” Cr McAliney said.
“We know many farms and households are responsible when it comes to legal burning, but our emergency services need to be alerted to what areas they should be observing this autumn.
“Fire permits are not issued for blocks less than one hectare because fires are not permitted on such properties, but the green waste [from them] can be taken to the refuse disposal facility.”
Wyndham residents receive a 50 per cent discount for green waste.
“There are many alternatives to burning, especially for residential property owners,” Cr McAliney said.
She said a great way to get rid of natural refuse was using a green bin.
“Other ways to remove larger natural debris, such as tree branches, is to use a chipper and spread the mulch,” she said.
Residents found lighting fires without a permit could be hit with a $200 fine.
Burn permits are available by application on the council website for $50. Apply for permits: bit.ly/2VrwPGY
