The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) has declared 30 August to 2 January to be its next fire danger period and that new rules would apply.
According to QFRS, the new rules mean that small fires cannot be lit without a permit during the period. The Service said that previously, people were able to light fires smaller than two metres in height and width without a permit.
Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said even these small fires were found to be a significant cause of wildfire during last year’s bushfire season.
Dates announced for danger period
“Last year many of these fires escaped because the people lighting them lacked the skill to recognise the severity of the fire danger conditions and did not exercise appropriate control and supervision of the fire,” Mr Roberts said.
“A permit system will reduce the number of wildfires started by small fires that get out of control and will also reduce demands on QFRS resources during the upcoming bushfire season.”
He said the change complemented the existing situation in many Local Government areas where Councils had adopted local laws prohibiting small backyard fires.
Mr Roberts said the declaration of a Fire Danger Period across the State meant anyone wanting to light a small fire would need to obtain a permit from their local fire warden.
“The warden can then assess the circumstances around each application and develop appropriate conditions or issue a rejection,” the Minister said.
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