Landowners must give 24-hour notice before any planned burn—even outside fire season—to avoid fines and unnecessary RFS callouts.

The MIA District RFS is reminding all landowners and residents that they are legally required to notify both the RFS and their neighbours at least 24 hours before lighting any planned burn—at any time of year. 

This requirement has been in place since the inception of the Rural Fires Act 1997 and applies year-round, not just during the Bush Fire Danger Period.

 Failure to notify can result in a fine of up to $1,100 and often leads to unnecessary callouts of local RFS volunteer brigades, wasting valuable time and resources that could be needed for real emergencies. 

“People often don’t realise this rule is mandatory 12 months of the year,” said Operational Officer Justin MacKellar. 

“If we are not informed about a fire, we treat it as an emergency. That means volunteers may leave work or home to respond to what turns out to be an allowed but unnotified burn.” 

Planned burns are a valid tool for land management, but they must be conducted responsibly. 

When burns are lit without notification: 

• Emergency triple-zero calls are made by concerned neighbours or passers-by. 
• Local brigades respond as if it is an out-of-control fire. 
• The person responsible may face significant fines and enforcement action. Before lighting a planned burn, residents must: 
• Notify the RFS at least 24 hours in advance. 
• Notify all neighbours who may see or be affected by the smoke. 
• Ensure the burn complies with current fire regulations and is conducted safely. 
• Consider the direction of the Smoke drift and if it will affect roads, towns, or villages. 

“This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about respect for your neighbours, for our volunteers, and for community safety,” the spokesperson added.