Fire Hazards and Property Compliance
Every landowner and occupier must manage bushfire risk in accordance with the Shire's current Bushfire Management Notice. Requirements vary by fire zone, property size, land use and whether the property contains assets, so identify the category that applies to your land before starting work.
Fire or Smoke Now
Call 000 immediately if you see an unattended fire, active flames or smoke that may indicate a fire. Do not use a routine complaint form for an emergency.
Key Dates for 2026-27
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Fire zone
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Compliance date
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Maintain until
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Eastern Fire Zone
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15 November 2026
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End of the restricted burning period
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Western Fire Zone
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1 December 2026
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End of the restricted burning period
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Dates and requirements can change when seasonal conditions require it. Always check the current notice and Shire updates.
Prepare Your Property
All landowner's within the Shire must ensure compliance is met as per the Bushfire Management Notice.
Depending on the category in the current notice, work may include:
- installing and maintaining compliant firebreaks
- reducing grass height and accumulated fuel
- maintaining an Asset Protection Zone where the property contains an asset
- keeping driveways, gates and access suitable for emergency vehicles
- removing combustible material from around buildings and clearing gutters
- maintaining the required standard for the full compliance period.
Do not rely on this summary for dimensions or category rules. Read the current notice for the measurements, exemptions and requirements that apply to your property.
Variation Applications
If the standard requirements cannot reasonably be met, apply to the Shire for a variation by the deadline in the current notice. For the 2026-27 season, the published deadline was 1 October 2026. Approval must be obtained before relying on a different arrangement.
Inspections and Compliance
Authorised officers may inspect properties ahead of the Bushfire season. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action, penalties and recovery of the Shire's costs if work must be carried out. Keep evidence of any approved variation and maintain the property after initial works are completed.
Firebreak Contractors List
The annual firebreak contractors list can be found here.
Report a Fire Hazard
For a non-emergency fire hazard, contact Ranger Services on (08) 9892 1111 or complete the Ranger Services Complaint Form. Give the property location, a clear description of the hazard and photographs only if they can be taken safely and lawfully.
Current information