As residents across Moorabool prepare for fire season, authorities are reminding locals to register their planned burn-offs.
Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade 4th Lieutenant Dale Salathiel said residents must always register their burns with the CFA and follow local council regulations.
Mr Salathiel said the brigade was getting unnecessary calls to attend burn-offs due to a lack of reporting.
“The fire danger period hasn’t commenced as of yet, so burning off can be done but would need to meet some local laws.”
Moorabool Shire’s fire prevention officer, Mark Roberts, said it was necessary for residents to obtain a permit before commencing burns.
“It’s a very simple process, you just need to fill in a form, which you then give to council and there is no fee involved.”
There is a turnaround time of three to five days for a permit to come through, during which Mr Roberts inspects the proposed burn-off area and material and ensures suitable equipment is on hand.
Residents who do not have a permit prior to a burn-off can face fines under Moorabool Shire Council local laws, Mr Roberts said. If the fire was to escape, residents could face serious penalties under the CFA Act, too.
“People have the responsibility of registering their burn-offs with the CFA prior to lighting them up,” Mr Roberts said.
Burn-offs will be permitted until the CFA declare the fire danger period, after which no burn-offs will be accepted and no permits issued.
Register your burns with CFA by calling 1800 668 511 and visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au for guidelines.
