Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
CFA is preparing to issue a small number of Schedule 3 private land burn-off permits to farmers around parts of Lismore, Camperdown and Colac areas, through to the Great Ocean Road.
This will be undertaken on a risk-based approach to help with broadacre farming practices, and each permit issued will have several conditions stated that landowners must comply with when undertaking burning activity.
It is an offence not to follow all conditions provided on the permit.
CFA District 6 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Peter Lockwood said landowners would be the ones predominantly using these permits but reminds Victorians that burning off piles of trees and branches does not fall in this category.
“Private burn-offs are a vital part of farming practices. Burning of crop stubble is often needed to kill off weeds and reduce pests,” Peter said.
“Although we will commence issuing the permits shortly, they will not be valid for burning prior to 9 March and with the required notification period of at least 24 hours prior to ignition.
“We will expect to see stubble burning commencing from 10 March.
“You may see a large amount of smoke in areas where these activities take place, so we ask that farmers also let their neighbours know and others nearby who are sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.”
CFA understands that many people who were impacted during the January fires may become concerned by the sight of smoke in their area.
“If you have any concerns with smoke in your area, you may contact the Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 for further information,” Peter said.
“While some permits are being issued, residents must still be aware that the Fire Danger Period is still in in place, and no burning off is to occur unless people have received permission via the online permit system.”
Part of the permit stipulates farmers must notify Triple Zero Victoria and the local fire brigade Captain prior to lighting their burn-off.
“Any burning off activity must always have someone in attendance, with enough water resources to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively,” Peter said.
Should a day of Total Fire Ban be declared, no fires can be lit in the open air or remain alight, with all permits in that region suspended for the 24-hour period.
Applications for Schedule 3 permits can be found online on the fire permits website, firepermits.vic.gov.au, which will also notify Triple Zero Victoria.
| Submitted by | CFA Media |
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