The RFS say they have delayed the start of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period owing to ongoing wet weather in the Far North Coast Team area.
Traditionally for this region, the Bush Fire Danger Period begins on September 1, however fire permits will not be required for the Ballina, Byron, Tweed, Lismore, Kyogle and Richmond Valley Local Government Area/s until October 1.
Bush fire danger period October 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026
RFS Inspector Cameron Gray said recent weather conditions have resulted in reduced fire activity in the Far North Coast Team area. ‘Landholders should take advantage of the milder conditions by conducting hazard reduction activities and ensuring their properties are well Inspector Gray prepared for summer,’ he said.
Discuss your bush fire survival plan
‘Every resident should also make and discuss their bush fire survival plan and ensure every member of their household knows what to do in the event a fire threatens.’
Inspector Gray said RFS members can conduct free environmental assessments of properties for private landholders and provide advice about Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates.
‘If you wish to burn prior to the commencement of the Bush Fire Danger Period, you must still follow all the normal procedures, such as notifying neighbours and your local fire authority, checking whether you require a Hazard Reduction Certificate, complying any requirements set by your local council and having an adequate water supply on site,’ Inspector Gray said.
Prevent the spread of fire from your property
‘It is your responsibility to prevent the spread of fire from your property, which means it is important that you do not leave fires unattended.
‘If a fire does escape, it is essential that you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond quickly and minimise the damage.’
Landholders can use the online notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify to ensure local fire authorities are aware of any burns they intend to undertake. ‘If fire authorities are aware of your burn, it helps prevent unnecessary emergency calls and the
deployment of firefighting resources,’ Inspector Gray said.
‘The online notification tool also provides notifications about any Total Fire Bans, helping landholders make informed decisions about whether to proceed with their planned burn.’
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