Burning in urban and residential areas is generally prohibited within the Coffs Harbour local government area, except where specific exemptions apply, as outlined below.
Burning vegetation is permitted on properties zoned as rural (e.g. RU2) or large lot residential (R5) and are not located in or adjacent to an urban area (subject to the Rural Fires Act 1997 and Regulations).
When planning to burn in rural areas you must notify:
- the NSW Rural Fire Service on (02) 6644 5127
- all adjoining landowners at least 24 hours prior to lighting the fire.
If you are an adjoining landowner and haven't been notified at least 24 hours prior to a fire being lit, you can put in a written complaint to csc@rfs.nsw.gov.au.
You will also need to apply to the NSW RFS for a Fire Permit if lighting fire during the Bushfire Danger Period.
Burning is permitted
A burning approval is not required from the City in the following situations:
- Lighting a fire with dry, seasoned wood for cooking or recreational purposes such as camping, or picnicking.
- Burning of vegetation that has grown on the property as part of carrying out agricultural operations on land zoned rural (RU2) or large lot residential (R5).
- Lighting a fire for the purpose of instructing in firefighting methods or conducting bushfire hazard reduction work under the Rural Fires Act 1997 (i.e. where a Hazard Reduction Certificate has been issued by the NSW Rural Fire Service).
- Any burns undertaken or overseen by Rural Fire Service or Fire and Rescue NSW (City should be notified at least 24hrs prior to the burn).
Burning anything other than vegetation
Burning anything else other than vegetation requires approval from the City. However, in rare circumstances, approvals may be granted with consideration of the following:
- Impact on regional and local air quality and amenity
- Feasibility of re-use, recycling or other alternative means of disposal
- Any opinions of the public who are likely to be affected by the proposal
- NSW Environmental Protection Authority's opinion
For further details, please click on the approval process tab below.
General obligations
Irrespective of whether the burning is permissible, or carried out under an approval, the Protection of the Environment Operations (Clean Air) Regulation 2022 requires individuals to take all reasonable measures to minimise air pollution. Such measures include:
- Burning only dry, well-seasoned hard wood (untreated and not painted)
- Checking weather conditions and wind direction
- Limiting the frequency and duration of burning
Ensure all general obligations are complied with to avoid the risk of penalty notices.
Non-compliance
Non-compliance with the burning control listed above may result in fines of:
- $500 for individuals
- $1,000 for corporations