What is a Total Fire Ban

Published on Thursday, 19 December 2024 at 2:23:26 PM

A Total Fire Ban (TFB) is declared on days when fires are most likely to threaten lives and property. This is because of predicted extreme fire weather or when there are already widespread fires and firefighting resources are stretched.
Occasionally TFBs may be declared outside of a fire season (such as in May or June) due to other factors such as higher temperatures and expected strong winds preceding a storm front.
On a Total Fire Ban day, it is illegal to light an open-air fire or conduct any activity that could start a fire. You can find the full list of prohibited activities below. Some of these activities are prescribed in the Bush Fires Regulations 1954 meaning they can be carried out during a TFB, providing you comply with the conditions listed here.
Businesses, public authorities or industries may be given an exemption for activities not prescribed in the Regulations, as long as conditions are met to ensure the activity does not start a fire. You can find more information about exemptions below.

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