Community Connect Issue 47

Can you use a fire pit this winter?

Everyone enjoys watching the ‘bush telly’ during the cooler months, and council often gets asked – can I have a fire pit in the backyard?

The short answer is yes, but it’s useful to take a look at council’s Backyard Burning Policy.

The policy aims to prevent air pollution and unwanted smoke generated by backyard fires. Under the policy, residents in our towns and villages can enjoy a backyard fire for cooking or recreational purposes, but not to burn vegetation or other waste. Instead, you need to dispose of garden waste in your green organics bin, compost or reuse it in the garden.

If you do have a backyard fire you need to make sure you only burn dry seasoned timber and manage the fire to minimise smoke and impacts on your neighbours. It is also important to check with NSW Fire and Rescue or Rural Fire Service as a fire permit may be required.

Fire and Rescue Ballina suggest that backyard fires must be:

- In a purpose built area/device.

- Have a minimum cleared area of 2 metres.

For more information contact council’s Planning and Environmental Health Division on 1300 864 444 or visit ballina.nsw.gov.au

For permits, bushfire danger periods and total fire bans visit fire.nsw.gov.au or rfs.nsw.gov.au