Frequently Asked Questions
To view the current burning restrictions click here
Do I need a permit to burn?
A permit is not required during the unrestricted burning period from 1 June to 30 September.
A permit is required during the restricted burning periods from 1 October to 30 November and 1 April to 31 May.
No open-air burning is permitted during the prohibited burning period from 1 December to 31 March.
Burning periods may change depending on seasonal conditions, so check with the Shire before burning.
When can I burn?
The Shire's usual burning periods are:
- 1 April to 31 May: Restricted Burning Time (permit required)
- 1 June to 30 September: Unrestricted Burning Time
- 1 October to 30 November: Restricted Burning Time (permit required)
These dates may be changed due to seasonal conditions.
When can't I burn?
The burning of garden refuse in an incinerator or on the ground is prohibited on all land within the Shire during the prohibited burning time (1 December to 31 March).
The lighting of camping or cooking fires is also prohibited on all land during the Prohibited Burning Time.
Do I need to register my burn?
Yes. All burns must be registered with the DFES Communication Centre on 1800 198 140 before ignition.
A permit must always be obtained from the Shire of Dundas during Restricted Burning Times.
Do I need to notify my neighbours?
Yes. You must notify your adjacent neighbours before lighting your burn.
You should also consider how smoke may affect neighbouring properties and the road network.
What equipment do I need before lighting a fire?
You must have either:
- A hose connected to running water that can reach the burn area; or
- A working firefighting unit containing a minimum of 400 litres of water.
You must also have a 3 metre wide firebreak around the area to be burnt.
Can I burn when the Fire Danger Rating is High?
No.
Burning is not permitted on days when the Fire Danger Rating is High or above.
Always check the current Fire Danger Rating and weather conditions before lighting a fire.
Can I burn during a Total Fire Ban?
No.
A Total Fire Ban prohibits open-air burning and other activities that are likely to cause a fire. Burning permits are also suspended during a Total Fire Ban.
Can I burn if the weather is windy?
You are responsible for assessing weather conditions before lighting a fire.
Do not burn if conditions could cause the fire or smoke to become unsafe or affect visibility on roads. Weather conditions can change quickly, so monitor conditions throughout the burn.
What if smoke from my fire affects the road?
You are responsible for ensuring smoke does not impact the visibility of the road network.
If smoke creates a hazard for road users, you may be directed to extinguish the fire.
Who is responsible for the fire?
The landowner or occupier is responsible for the fire until it is fully extinguished.
This includes responsibility for smoke that may affect neighbouring properties or visibility on roads.
Fire Control Officers can direct a landowner or occupier to extinguish a fire if it is considered unsafe, at risk of escaping, or is being lit contrary to the applicable restrictions.
How can I conduct a burn safely?
Planned burning requires careful preparation. Before lighting a fire, check the applicable burning restrictions, Fire Danger Rating and weather conditions, prepare the area, have suitable firefighting equipment available and ensure the fire can be safely extinguished.
The DFES Burn SMART resources provide additional information about planning and conducting burns safely.
Current Bans & Alerts
To keep up to date with current bans, warnings and emergency alerts, check:
Burning restrictions can change without notice. If you are unsure whether you are permitted to burn, contact the Shire of Dundas before lighting a fire.
Important
Never leave a fire unattended.
Do not light a fire unless you are confident you can safely control and extinguish it.
Landowners and occupiers are responsible for ensuring their fire does not escape and that smoke does not create a hazard or nuisance.