Displays when Total Fire Ban in force
On Monday 16 March a man was prosecuted at the Kyneton Magistrate’s Court for lighting a large fire in Ashbourne in breach of Council’s Local Law in November last year.
Woodend CFA and the local police had to attend the fire in response to concerns raised by nearby residents about the large plume of black smoke and explosive noises.
The man had no sufficient fire protection equipment available to extinguish the fire and some spot fires had occurred. The CFA extinguished the fire using 6,000 litres of water.
The man was placed on a 12 month good behaviour bond and ordered to donate $600 to the Woodend CFA.
Manager of Community Safety, Anne-Louise Lindner, said this could have been avoided if the resident had contacted Council before lighting the fire. All burn-offs should also be registered with the CFA by calling 1800 668 511.
“Permits to burn are free, which includes an assessment and safety advice. Before burning off, always check the requirements of the Local Law on Council’s website, or by calling or dropping into a Council office,” she said.
Ms Lindner said that some residents may be permitted to burn off without a permit now that the fire danger period has ended as of Monday 30 March, but they should always check the Local Law restrictions first.
“You may still need a permit, depending on the size of your land and the amount you wish to burn off. Burn-offs must also be monitored for at least seven days afterwards to ensure they are fully extinguished,” she said.
“Be conscious of the impact on your neighbours, particularly of nuisance smoke. As a courtesy, talk to them first before you burn off.”
For questions about burning off in the Macedon Ranges outside the fire danger period, contact Council on 5422 0333 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/burning-off.
