The Bush Fire Danger Period Started on the 1st of October, this means you are required to get a fire permit for all outdoor burn fires (cooking fires are exempt). A permit is free and sets out conditions for how the fire can be safely conducted. The rules around what can be burnt and the conditions for open pile burning are set out in the Central Coast Council Open Pile Burning Policy please note there was a new version issued this year so please reacquaint yourself with the changes. Key points that should be noted before requesting a permit.
Only dead and dry vegetation can be burnt. Green, damp or compacted material is not permitted.
The maximum pile size is 2 metres wide by 1.5 metres high.
Only one pile may be burning at any time.
The pile must be at least 20 metres from buildings, with flammable material cleared for at least 4.5 metres around the fire.
Branches should be 150 mm or smaller.
The current Council guidance says open pile burning is to occur between sunrise and sunset as per the BOM, after which piles are to be extinguished.
You need water and firefighting equipment ready. A hose and adequate water supply must be immediately available to control the fire.
Adjacent property occupiers must receive at least 24 hours’ notice.
The RFS Central Coast Fire Control Centre must also be given at least 24 hours’ notice. This can be done through the RFS online burn notification system.
The fire must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Fire bans override the policy. Open pile burning cannot proceed when a Total Fire Ban or other applicable burning restriction is in force, this includes cooking fires. If you have a permit you will receive a notification that your permit is temporarily suspended if there is a Total Fire Ban in place To get a Fire Permit apply at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP. A RFS permit officer will come and assess that your pile is within the limits of the open pile burning policy and if deemed appropriate you will be issued a permit. Two recent local incidents at Calga and Mangrove Mountain provide a timely reminder that the bush fire danger period is here. It is important to note once a fire is lit, conditions can change quickly, particularly as we head into the warmer and drier months. Before you light up The NSW RFS recommends checking several things before lighting any fire: Make sure you are legally allowed to burn. Get the required permit or approval. Notify your neighbours and the RFS. Check the Fire Danger Rating, weather and wind conditions. Check whether a Total Fire Ban or No Burn Notice is in force. Have sufficient water and firefighting equipment ready. Keep the fire supervised. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished and continue monitoring the area afterwards. If a fire escapes or becomes unsafe, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Rural Fire Service NSW For local bush fire information, residents can also monitor the NSW RFS, Hazards Near Me. Tarryn Nester, Captain, Mangrove Mountain Rural Fire Brigade
