Changes to fire management services
Council is making some changes to our services, following current COVID-19 restrictions. We’ve updated our fire prevention processes to ensure we’re keeping our community safe while protecting staff.
Council officers will now make every attempt to resolve issues by phone. Some inspections may need to take place in person, but only if necessary. In these cases, we ask the community to respect physical distancing recommendations.
This approach reduces the need for staff and community members to be in close contact. It also follows physical distancing advice.
We ask for our community’s help during these challenging times. By working together, we can keep everyone safe.
During CFA fire danger period or total fire ban days
Every year, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) declare a fire danger period. During this period, they restrict the use of fire in the community to prevent fires from starting.
The CFA has a list of what you can and can't do during the fire danger periods.
If you see someone doing the wrong thing during the fire danger period or a total fire ban day, you should call the fire brigade and/or police on 000.
Outside of CFA fire danger period
If you believe someone is lighting an illegal or dangerous fire outside of the CFA fire danger period, you can contact us:
- by phone on 9705 5200
- by email at [email protected]
- In person at our Customer Service Centres.
We will investigate the report as soon as possible.
Fires for cooking, warmth or campfires
Small fires are permitted for cooking or warmth outside of the fire danger period.
In such cases, the fire must:
- be contained (such as a barbecue, brazier or purpose built for cooking or warmth)
- be primarily used for cooking or warmth
- not cause a nuisance to your neighbours
- be 3m clear of space above and around its perimeter
If the fire is dangerous or threatening
If a fire for cooking, warmth or a campfire is dangerous to homes or buildings, you should call the fire brigade on 000 immediately.
Excessive smoke
If smoke from your neighbour's chimney, wood heater or open fireplace is causing excessive smoke, you should first talk to them. Often your neighbour may not be aware they are creating a lot of smoke.
The Environmental Protection Authority Victoria also has some tips to reduce smoke from wood heaters.
Make a complaint
If talking to your neighbour doesn't solve the problem, you can contact us to make a complaint. Please provide as much detail as possible about the problem and where it appears to be coming from.
We will investigate your complaint within 48 hours.