Fire Seasons and Fire Permits
CURRENT FIRE SEASON - OPEN
No fire permit is currently needed to light a fire in the open air |
Fire Seasons
There are three fire seasons you should be aware of:
No fire permit is needed to light a fire in the open air
A fire permit from the relevant rural fire authority is required to light a fire in the open air
Total fire ban and lighting of fires is not permitted in the open air
You should know what fire season is operating if you are travelling or visiting a rural fire area. Changes to fire seasons are notified by radio announcements or newspaper advertisements or information is available directly from the relevant rural fire authority.
Fire Permits
When do I need a fire permit?
You'll need a fire permit during a Restricted fire season. Check with the local Rural Fire Authority regarding what fire season is in place.
However, even if you have a permit you are still responsible for a fire that spreads and causes damage. And, failure to obtain a permit for a fire is an offence against the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977 carrying a $1500 fine.
Applying for a fire permit
Fire permits must be applied for from the relevant authority and can take up to 48 hours to process. Permits are for the hours between 9:00am to 3:00pm only and are normally valid for 14 days.
Land within 1km of DOC land needs a permit from DOC or NZ Forest Managers
NZ Forest Managers control permits south of the Waitahanui township