The CFS Chief Officer has declared the Fire Danger Season dates for various fire ban districts, with some dates yet to be confirmed.
The Fire Danger Season is a critical period in South Australia, where the risk of bushfires is heightened.
Fire Ban District Dates:
- Eastern Eyre Peninsula: 1 November 2023 – 15 April 2024
- Flinders: 16 October 2023 – 15 April 2024
- Lower Eyre Peninsula: 15 November 2023 – 15 April 2024
- Mid North: 1 November 2023 – 30 April 2024
- North East Pastoral: 16 October 2023 – 31 March 2024
- North West Pastoral: 16 October 2023 – 31 March 2024
- West Coast: 16 October 2023 – 15 April 2024
- Yorke Peninsula: 1 November 2023 – 30 April 2024
(Other districts TBC)
Fire Restrictions in Government Reserves:
The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) has set strict fire bans and restrictions in parks, with all open fires, liquid fuel, and gas stoves banned on Total Fire Ban days. For specifics on National Parks, Wildlife Reserves, and Wilderness Protection Areas, visit the National Parks website. DEW also conducts prescribed burns for fire management.
ForestrySA Guidelines:
ForestrySA prohibits lighting fires on its Forest Reserves from 1 November to 30 April. These dates might extend if high fire danger persists. The reserves are closed on Total Fire Ban days. ForestrySA also conducts residue and prescribed burns for fire management. More details are available on the ForestrySA website.
Activities Without a Permit:
Certain activities, like using gas appliances for cooking, electric welders, and angle grinders, are allowed during the Fire Danger Season, provided conditions are met. However, above-ground fires, such as chimineas, require permits.
Wood Fire Pizza Ovens:
Outdoor use requires a Schedule 10 Permit, while indoor use (fully enclosed with a spark arrester) is permitted.
Permit Types:
Two permits can be issued by an Authorised Officer:
- Schedule 9 Permit: For fires or activities on non-Total Fire Ban days.
- Schedule 10 Permit: For fires or activities on Total Fire Ban days, intended for emergencies.
To apply for a permit, contact your local council. The Authorised Officer will assess your application, ensuring all precautions are taken to prevent the spread of fire. Once approved, a permit with conditions will be issued. For theatrical fire effects or pyrotechnic displays, only the CFS can issue a permit.
Compliance:
Adhering to permit conditions is crucial. Before lighting a fire, notify all adjoining neighbours, the local council, nearby government reserves, and the local CFS Brigade. Conditions may vary, so always refer to your permit for specifics.
For more information, click here. Remember, safety first!