Fire restrictions are still in force

Burning off branches

Residents are reminded the Fire Danger Period is still in force for Macedon Ranges Shire, and anyone who burns off without a permit risks being fined.

Due to prolonged dry conditions and predicted low rainfall for autumn, the Country Fire Authority has not yet lifted fire restrictions for the shire.

Council’s Acting Director Assets and Operations, Anne-Louise Lindner said local agencies were concerned that with the arrival of recent cooler autumn weather, residents might begin burning off, particularly over Easter long weekend.

The reminder comes after several Macedon Ranges CFA brigades recently reported call-outs to illegal burnoffs across the shire.

“Fire restrictions remain in place until the official end of the Fire Danger Period is declared by the CFA,” Ms Lindner said.

“We do not expect this to be until the end of April.”

“We would like to remind residents that police take a zero tolerance approach to those who light fires during the Fire Danger Period and heavy penalties apply.”

People wishing to burn off for agricultural purposes are allowed to do so during the Fire Danger Period by obtaining a permit

/Public Release. View in full here.