The Fire Danger Period (FDP) for Ballarat, Hepburn and Moorabool Shires commenced at 1am today, Monday 19 December 2022.
Wet weather across winter, spring and the start to summer has increased fuel loads significantly across Ballarat's urban fringe and outlying areas.
City of Ballarat Councillor, Mark Harris said it was critical that despite summer temperatures still being coolish of late and the Fire Danger Period starting later in the season than normal, it was time for everyone to become more vigilant around fire risk.
"The City of Ballarat understands how difficult it has been to get vehicles onto properties to commence slashing and also the difficulties around slashing too early and regrowth," Cr Harris said.
"However, as we turn the corner into summer proper, with dryer predicted weather, we know the risk is there.
"With the Fire Danger Period now in effect, the City of Ballarat's Fire Prevention officers will be commencing property inspections to make sure fuel loads are being reduced and in helping protect the neighbouring community's safety from potentially hazardous, unmanaged fuel loads."
From Monday, December 19, 2022, further information for burning off permits during the Fire Danger Period for broadacre and farming purposes can be made by contacting Ballarat's Fire Prevention Officer on 5320 5500. Permits are not issued for piles of rubbish or green waste.
"I cannot stress enough that people should get onto the CFA website and check what can and cannot be done during the Fire Danger Period when it comes to the use of lighting fires, using machinery and all the rules around when a Total Fire Ban is declared," Cr Harris said.
"Whilst the Fire Danger Period has been a long time coming, now is the time to do the right thing and the City of Ballarat Fire Prevention team will be stepping up inspections and issuing warnings and fines to those not clearing up their property and putting themselves and others at risk."
