The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will officially end at 1.00 am on Tuesday, 7 April 2026 in the following municipalities within CFA's District 17, 24, and 23.
Horsham Rural City Council
West Wimmera Shire Council
Yarriambiack Shire Council (southern part)
Wangaratta Rural City Council
Benalla Rural City Council
Mansfield Shire Council
Rural City of Wodonga
Towong Shire Council
Alpine Shire Council
Indigo Shire Council
Alpine resorts Victoria (Falls Creek Alpine resort and Mount Hotham Alpine resort)
It has been a long and challenging fire season and as we head into autumn, there is still heightened fire risk, with dry weather expected for many more months.
As fire restrictions begin to lift, CFA is urging residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer for the North East, Gavin Thompson, said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors in these areas.
"Recent fires in these areas have shown less intensity due to some recent welcomed rainfall," Gavin said.
"Rain has fallen consistently, as predicted in the region which is allowing us to ease restrictions."
CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer District 17, Mark Hildebrandt, said there had been noticeable new growth in the district.
"New growth points to higher levels of moisture which will help to keep any fire behaviour manageable," Mark said.
"However, we do ask people to still be mindful of the risk associated with burning off and to please still follow the strict safety protocols if you are going to have a burn off."
Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the Fire Danger Periods that are in place in the region they are residing.
With the end of the FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it's essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.
To prevent unnecessary emergency callouts, landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response.
Burn-offs can be registered online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 668 511.
Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.
Burn-off safety checklist
Check fire restrictions in your area and register your burn-off.
Monitor weather conditions, especially wind.
Notify neighbours to prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
Maintain a three-metre firebreak, clear of flammable materials.
Have enough equipment and water to contain the fire.
Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay until it is fully extinguished.
If your burn-off gets out of control, call 000 immediately.
For tips on protecting your health from smoke, visit the EPA Victoria website.
