General News
8 March, 2025
Burn-off permits now available
CFA officers in District 17 have started issuing burn-off permits to farmers which means the community will start to see an increase in smoke.
District 17 Commander Chris Eagle said they issued permits this week.
"It's for farmers to burn stubble from last year's crop, get rid of build up and manage pests and bugs as well as weed control," he said.
"It is not for green waste."
Commander Eagle said they expect to see around 400 permits come in the next week or so for approval.
"This doesn't include the multiple properties issued under the same landowner," he said.
"One farmer could apply for, say 10 properties, in the one permit so that number could be 1000 properties."
The community is urged to be aware of the smoke in the area and only call triple zero if they see the fire.
"We don't want our volunteers to be driving around looking for a fire if they only see smoke," Commander Eagle said.
"A condition of the permit is for the landowner to notify us of their burn-off so if the caller can see the source of the fire we can check our database to see if it's a planned burn-off or a grass fire that we need to attend to."
Landowners are reminded to abide by all conditions displayed on the permit, including to monitor weather and wind conditions, register the burn-off, make sure the break around is six metres, and have it completely out by the next day.
"They also need to ensure people and water are on site of the burn-off to keep it under control," Commander Eagle said.
For more information and to apply for a permit visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-permits/about-fire-permits.