CFA - Declared Fire Danger Period

The Fire Danger Period for Latrobe City commenced on Monday October 27, 2025. This means that there are no fires permitted in the open air without a written permit, along with most activities with the potential to generate sparks.

As we have had good rain falls over the last few weeks, the ground surface is now holding much more moisture, and has been very good for additional spring growth. Consequently, we are seeing substantial grass that will soon start to dry off and will ultimately become a fire risk.

Given this delay to the start of our usual fire season, property owners can still apply for a permit to burn with each permit assessed on its merits and the local conditions. Permits can be applied for at firepermits.vic.gov.au

Churchill Fire Brigade Captain Matt Fisher said that residents could find information about what is and is not permitted during the Fire Danger Period by visiting cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can or by calling 1800 226 226.

A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the Fire Danger Period. This permit may be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District 27 Office. Please check with your municipality in the first instance.

Property owners must ensure that they comply with all permit conditions prior to and when burning off.

Lighting a fire in the open without a permit or breaching the permit conditions is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $17,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment. Barbeques and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces (to view complete conditions visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can )

Use of chainsaw/lawn mowers, welding/grinding equipment and vehicles that come in contact with vegetation and machinery with an internal combustion/heat engine is permitted provided conditions are followed.

Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farming – important especially for new farmers, bush block owners or hobby farmers.

A Total Fire Ban declaration means no fires can be lit in the declared district for that day unless there is a specific exemption or special permit issued. This applies irrespective of the Fire Restriction status for a given municipality. Further details at cfa.vic.gov.au/can

Fire Plugs save lives

Protecting your home and family in the event of a fire emergency is crucial. That is why it is important to have accessible and working fire hydrants in your community. You have the power to help us ensure that these hydrants are in top condition by taking the following steps:

• Clearing the area around the hydrant from soil, grass, and shrubs.
• Keeping vehicles away from the hydrant. Remember, parking, stopping, or leaving your vehicle within 1 metre of a fire hydrant, fire hydrant indicator, or fire plug indicator is not allowed unless there is a sign indicating otherwise. When parallel parking, make sure to leave a minimum of 1 metre between your vehicle and the one in front and behind.
• Report any visible faults, damage, or missing posts or markers using the Snap Send Solve app.

Your efforts to help us maintain fire hydrant points can make all the difference in an emergency.

By ensuring that these hydrants are accessible, you are not only protecting your own home and family, but also the entire community.

A Firefighter’s Christmas List

Dear Santa,

For Christmas, all I want for my community is:

• Have fun, but safely and sensibly.
• Not to speed, or drink and drive.
• Follow fire permit requirements and be careful with camp fires.
• Look after each other, especially those who are alone.
• To reach out if you are struggling or worried.
• Be mindful of dry conditions and summer heat.
• Be careful when placing a BBQ
• Play safely, and know your limits.

Remember, firefighters do not stop for holidays! However when you take care and act safely, we can rest.