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Fire Hazards and Burning Off

Fire Hazard

burning off in a backyard

To prevent the outbreak of fire, residents must keep their property free from long grass or any other combustible material that could cause an outbreak of fire. Fire season is generally from November to March (summer time).

Local Laws officers patrol all properties during fire hazard season. When a property is identified as being a fire hazard, a Fire Prevention Notice is issued to each owner of the property giving them 14 days to clear the property. Local Laws Officers reinspect the property after the notice has expired.

There are no extentions on fire prevention notices. It is the property owners responsibility to make sure their property is maintained.

If the property is still deemed a fire hazard, Council will clear the property and all charges for the clean-up are passed on to the property owners to pay.

In addition to the costs incurred for the removal of the fire hazard, an infringement fee is issued to all owners of the property for failing to comply with the Fire Prevention Notice (for example, if the property is owned by two people, an infringement fee is sent to each person).

Note: Properties issued with a Fire Prevention Notice in the previous year will automatically be checked by Council to ensure the property is safe.

Council can not issue Fire Prevention Notices during winter.

Burning Off

Residents are reminded that lighting incinerators or burning in the open air is prohibited in Darebin to promote a cleaner environment. Fires may only be lit outdoors when cooking food. Residents are asked to advise neighbours and Council prior to cooking food outdoors.

An on-the-spot fine of $200 may be issued to anyone found breaking this law.

Note: It is illegal to have an outdoor fire of any kind during Total Fire Ban days. Ask your local fire brigade for more information about declared Total Fire Ban days.

Further information is available on the Department of Sustainability and Environment, Fire and Other Emergencies website

For complaints or concerns about smoke caused by indoor heating or cooking, contact Darebin's Customer Service Centre on 8470 8888.

Further Information

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Customer Service
Ph: 8470 8888