As autumn sets in, it's a great time to get your property ready for the months ahead. Simple tasks like clearing leaves and cleaning gutters can help reduce risks during winter and beyond.
If you are planning on burning off, it's important to remember that even though the official Fire Danger Period for the Macedon Ranges ended on 7 April, Council's Community Local Law rules and regulations still apply:
- Burning off is not permitted on properties less than ½ an acre.
- Permits may be required to burn off on larger properties (½ acre and above).
Take advantage of the following free green waste disposal options at local resource recovery facilities instead.
Mayor Cr Kate Kendall said now is the perfect time to clean up leaves, branches and garden waste, and it easy with the free disposal options on offer.
"I encourage residents to take advantage of the free drop-off week or use their voucher before it expires-every small action helps keep our neighbourhoods tidy and well-maintained heading into the cooler months," she said.
Free green waste disposal week
From Monday 25 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, you can visit resource recovery facilities in Kyneton, Romsey and Woodend to dispose of eligible green waste.
Use your free green waste drop-off voucher
A voucher to drop-off a free trailer-load (6x4x1) of green waste at resource recovery facilities was included in the most recent edition of ShireLife newsletter (delivered to mailboxes in March) and is valid until 30 June 2026. If you didn't receive a copy, there are a limited number of copies available from our customer service centres .
Things you must do before you burn off
If you are planning to burn off, you must:
- check local rules and regulations
- plan ahead and register your burn
- check weather conditions in your area
- never leave it unattended and make sure an adult always supervises the fire
- ensure that the fire doesn't bother neighbours or people nearby; and that smoke doesn't reduce visibility outside your property (including for drivers on nearby roads)
- have enough equipment on hand to put the fire out if needed
- only burn vegetation that is dead and dry and when winds are low (no more than 15 km/h)
- consider the safety of wildlife and check any debris piles. Wildlife officers recommend using a torch and a broom, or pole, to carefully check the centre and bottom areas of the bonfire.
- properly extinguish with water.
Even outside the Fire Danger Period, it's important not to be complacent-stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.
