No burn-offs without a permit

The Fire Danger Period is still in force, but farmers can now apply for permits to burn.

With the return to some milder weather, many farmers and landholders will be beginning their burning program in preparation for sowing of crops and this will result in some smoke columns around the Ballarat and surrounding areas, including Moorabool.

District 15 began agreeing to permit applications for Schedule 13 agricultural burns only last week, from Monday 7 March 2022.

District 15 Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer (A/ACFO) Chris Bigham said any burn-offs when fire restrictions are in place require a permit.

“The permit holder must comply with permit conditions and must notify the planned use of a granted permit through the contact number provided on the burn permit to reduce Triple Zero (000) brigade call outs.

“Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a hefty penalty,” he said.

Under the Summary Offences Act (1966), landowners must not leave a fire unattended as it could result in damage to or destruction of life and property.

Landowners still have responsibilities that they must adhere to when burning off, and they must strictly adhere to conditions listed in the Schedule 13 permit.

“It is important that all landholders are aware of their responsibilities when incorporating burning off into their farm safety plan and take adequate precautions to ensure that all requirements are met,” said A/ACFO Bigham.

“Any permits issued during the current conditions will include as a minimum requirement 3000 litres of water, 2 adults in attendance and a 3 to 6 metre break around the perimeter.

Those seeking a permit should apply via Fire Permits Victoria, the dedicated online site for digital permits at firepermits.vic.gov.au

The website allows Victorians to create an account to apply for fire permits during a period when fire restrictions are in place, or on a day of Total Fire Ban (TFB).

The website also allows a person to notify authorities of the use of a permit during a period when fire restrictions are in place or TFB; and a burn-off during a period when fire restrictions are not in place.

To read the full story – Simply click on the following link

https://issuu.com/themooraboolnews/docs/mn_2022-03-15/10

in the 15 March 2022 edition
OR
pick up a paper around your town.