Victoria’s fire services are reminding Victorians to apply for a permit if they need to use open fire this fire season.
Over the coming days and weeks, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) will declare the commencement of the Fire Danger Period for regional and outer Melbourne municipalities across Victoria.
Each area of Victoria enters the Fire Danger Period at different times, based on local conditions and the risk of grass and bushfires. During this period the use of fire is restricted in the community.
However, if you need to use open fire for work, to undertake burn-offs or for other essential activities during this time, you can apply for a permit online. In some circumstances, permits can also be issued for Total Fire Ban days.
Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block said the permit system played a crucial role in helping fire and rescue authorities manage fire risk across the state.
“I strongly encourage anyone who uses open fire for work or other activities to apply for a fire permit this fire season,” Commissioner Block said.
“Your permit will outline methods for undertaking your planned activity safely, and will enable fire authorities to communicate with you on high-risk days, or if conditions change.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the multiagency online system created an integrated approach with Victoria’s fire and rescue services, local governments and municipal fire prevention officers.
“The Fire Permits Victoria website was established in 2020 and has proved to be a useful and easy-to-use resource, allowing people to seamlessly apply for a permit in a matter of minutes,” CO Heffernan said.
“Having a fire permit will not only allow you to carry out your essential activities throughout the fire season, but will ensure you are provided with timely safety directives and advice.”
Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said the system allowed permit holders to notify agencies when approved permits would be used, including for planned burns.
“This frees up the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority to focus on their core work of call-taking and means our firefighters will not be dispatched unnecessarily,” he said.
“The permit system provides agencies with vital information to manage fire risk in an efficient and effective way.”
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