Fire hazard inspections on private property begin
Published on 24 October 2023
Spring is a time to shrug off the winter garments, spend more time outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather. For many of us, it is also time to clean up our property to remove fire hazards and minimise risk of bush fire.
The Fire Danger Period in the Northern Grampians Shire has been declared and will commence on Monday 6 November 2023. Property owners are urged to act now to keep our community safe and reduce the likelihood of a Fire Prevention Notice being issued.
From Monday 6 November, council officers will begin conducting fire hazard inspections on private property throughout the Northern Grampians Shire. Fire Prevention Notices will be issued to property owners who have not taken appropriate measures to reduce the risk of fire on their property.
The best way to minimise this risk is to reduce the fuel load present on and around your property. You can do this by:
- Mowing or slashing grass and weeds to less than 10cm high
- Raking up leaves and bark in the immediate area around buildings
- Pruning low branches from buildings and fences
- Removing rubbish and garden waste
You must ensure your property remains in a low-risk state for the duration of the Fire Danger Period. This may mean that frequent mowing or slashing is required.
Cr Kevin Erwin, Mayor Northern Grampians Shire Council said, “Under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958, Council has a legal obligation to ensure that the community fire risk is reduced.”
“Our Municipal Fire Prevention Officers have powers to inspect properties and issue a Fire Prevention Notice where necessary.
“Council also has the legal right to act on and remove a fire hazard on private land and to recoup the costs if the landowner fails to comply.
“This is to keep our community safe and to protect the exceptional natural beauty and wildlife that we live amongst.”
To find out more about the fire hazard inspections program, go to council's website at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Emergencies/Fire or contact the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer on 03 5358 8743.