Burning Periods
Under Section 17 & 18 of the Bush Fires Act 1954, the restricted and prohibited burning periods are set by the DFES Commissioner for each Local Government area.
The Shire of Merredin may decide to shorten or extend these periods to accommodate the seasonal conditions in any given year.
Open Period
17 March - 15 September
Burning Permitted
|
Restricted Burning
16 September - 31 October
Permit Required to Burn
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Prohibited Burning
1 November - 17 February
Burning Prohibited
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Restricted Burning
18 February - 16 March
Permit Required to Burn
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Burning Permits
Permits are required to burn during restricted burning periods, and will usually only be issued for the purposes of reducing potential fuel load on your property.
In order for a permit to be issued, you must ensure the following;
- Provide sufficient running water and/or a fire fighting unit to the area that is to be burnt
- Ensure there are adequate fire breaks surrounding the pile or area to be burnt
- Provide enough people to attend the fire (usually a minimum of three) from lighting the fire until it is totally extinguished and cold.
- Notify your neighbours/adjoining landowners prior to lighting the fire
- Notify the Department of Fire & Emergency Services 9395 9209 prior to lighting the fire (same day)
- Notify the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions (Parks & Wildlife) if your property is within 3km of their land, prior to lighting the fire.
Please be advised that burning is not permitted on Sundays or public holidays.
Fire Control Officers are not obliged to issue permits and they may advise on alternatives to burning. If a Fire Control Officer refuses your permit request, it is a breach of the Bush Fires Act 1954 to request a permit from another Fire Control Officer. You may, however, appeal a Fire Control Officer’s decision to the Shire of Merredin CEO or Chief Bushfire Control Officer.
Apply for Burning Permit
Fire Control Officers
You can download the full list of FCO's below.
2023/24 FCO List