General News
14 March, 2024
Burn permits for farming open
Although the Fire Danger Period (FDP) remains in force, applications for Schedule 13 Permits to Burn for agricultural purposes only will now be considered across parts of the state, including locally. Permits are now being considered in the Central...

Although the Fire Danger Period (FDP) remains in force, applications for Schedule 13 Permits to Burn for agricultural purposes only will now be considered across parts of the state, including locally.
Permits are now being considered in the Central Goldfields, Mount Alexander and Loddon shires, as well as the City of Greater Bendigo among others.
According to CFA, these permits are being considered as they assist with farming practices and will be undertaken on a risk-based approach.
Burn-offs are part of vital farming practices where burning of crop stubble is often needed to kill off weeds and reduce pests.
Where there is a change in weather conditions, wind and temperature, which in turn increases the fire risk, the issuing of these permits will be withdrawn and any current permits that are issued may be revoked.
CFA District 20 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Andrew Dixon said while permits may be granted, the strict conditions they hold must be followed.
“During the FDP you can only burn-off if you have an approved written permit. On Total Fire Ban Days, all fires in the open air are banned and any permits are suspended for the 24-hour period,” he said.
“Permit applications are assessed in accordance with the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 and will be considered based on local and expected conditions.
“Permits may or may not be granted, as an application does not guarantee this. Any permit issued may be suspended for a period of time at the direction of CFA or by the declaration of a Total Fire Ban.
“At all times you must be sure to follow the advice on burning off safely, as unfortunately each year CFA crews are called out to help people who have lost control of their burn-off.”
Failure to comply with the conditions contained in any permit issued is an offence and penalties for non-compliance apply.
Applications for Schedule 13 Permits to Burn can be made through the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.
gov.au