Easing conditions and recent rainfall have prompted the RFS to declare an early end to the Bush Fire Danger Period BFDP in a number of Local Government Areas LGAs in the North East Area Command region from March 1.

Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Michael Brett said the statutory BFDP ends on 31 March 2024 but a decision had been made, in consultation with local authorities and stakeholders, to end the season one month early in some LGAs due to favourable conditions.

Fire agencies and land managers will now turn their attention towards conducting hazard reduction works, including planned burning.

Chief Superintendent Brett said landholders still had a number of requirements to be meet prior to conducting burns on private property.

“From 1 March 2024, fire permits will no longer be required for the City of Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Lismore and Richmond Valley LGAs,” he said.

“Even though a fire permit is no longer required, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority 24 hours before burning.”

Chief Superintendent Brett said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush and grass fires, even with mild local conditions.

“Whilst the bush fire season has ended, this doesn’t mean the risk of fire has, with high fuel loads still present across the state,” he said.

“Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if they are not managed correctly.

“Before lighting up, people should check whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate and have sufficient equipment on hand to control and contain the fire to their property.”

For more information visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP