An open fire season will be introduced for the Waikato District Council area effective from Wednesday 1 April 2015.
Principal Rural Fire Officer Gordon Bailey says an open fire season means permits are no longer required across the district unless the fire is within a Department of Conservation area or within a one kilometre safety margin around such an area.
He says it’s important for people lighting fires, as well as landowners, to be aware they are responsible for ensuring the fire is safe, controllable and monitored to ensure it doesn’t spread.
“Special attention is required for areas where peat soils exist as these fires can spread undetected and can be extremely difficult to control.”
Residents who have applied for a fire permit over recent weeks will be contacted by Council staff to confirm the new details.
For more information please contact:
Erin Rangi-Watt
Senior Communications Advisor
Waikato District Council
07 824 8633 Extn: 5900
027 551 1601
erin.rangi-watt@waidc.govt.nz
