Fire Danger Period for more of North East

• Rural City of Wangaratta 

• Rural City of Benalla 

• Mansfield Shire 

• Mt Buller/Mt Stirling Alpine Resorts 

Residents in these areas are encouraged to use the remaining time before the FDP begins to prepare their properties and complete any planned private burn-offs while conditions and regulations allow.  

This includes cleaning up dry grass, leaves, and other flammable materials, as well as completing safe private burn-offs while they are still permitted.  

Assistant Chief Fire Officer District 23, Brett Myers, said the landscape is drying extremely rapidly to a point where the risk of fires spreading beyond landowner control means it now is the right time to introduce fire restrictions. 

"After favourable growing conditions in many areas, we're seeing increased grass and vegetation fuels that are readily available to burn," Brett said. 

"The start of the Fire Danger Period is an important reminder that every Victorian has a role to play in preparing for fire.  

"Taking simple steps now can help protect lives, homes and properties throughout the season." 

For more information on preparing your property and understanding local fire restrictions, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au.  

Those conducting burn-offs prior to the introduction of fire restrictions should notify Triple Zero Victoria online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au). If for any reason you need to start your burn-off immediately (within 2 hours), you can still register by calling 1800 668 511.  

By registering your burn-off online, you allow emergency call takers to allocate more of their time taking calls from people who need emergency assistance immediately and prevent the unnecessary dispatch of volunteer firefighters and fire trucks.    

No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.    

Fire Danger Period information:    

• A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the Fire Danger Period and are only issued in exceptional circumstances. You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au   

• Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $24,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment. For a full list of conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can    

• Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms    

• More information about FDPs is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod    

• To find out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.