Find out if you need a Permit to Burn, how to obtain one and what you need to do prior to your planned burn.
When you need a Permit to Burn
A Permit to Burn is required during the Restricted Burning Periods (Spring/Summer or Autumn).
Before lighting any fire in the open air during the Restricted Burning Period, you must obtain a Permit to Burn which can be obtained by contacting your area Fire Control Officer.
There are some exceptions for very small burns of garden refuse (less than one cubic metre), campfires, and solid fuel BBQs and pizza ovens, which are dependent on the current Fire Danger Rating.
For more information, please visit the following pages:
Important notes:
No burning is allowed during the Prohibited Burning Period.
The dates of the Restricted Burning Periods can change at short notice due to variable weather conditions. Please check this website and our social media for updates, and always call your area's Fire Control Officer (FCO) or the Shire Rangers to check the status before lighting any fire.
Apply for a Permit to Burn
Applying for a Permit to burn is a straightforward process and there is no fee. Here's how you can do it:
Step 1: Gather necessary information
Before applying, ensure you have the following details ready:
- Size of burn: Estimate the dimensions of the area you intend to burn
- Materials to burn: Clearly state what materials you plan to burn
- Burn location: Provide the address where the burn will take place
- Permit holder's details: Note down the name and contact number of the person responsible for the burn.
Step 2: Contact your local Fire Control Officer (FCO)
Call or email your local Fire Control Officer to request a Permit to Burn. If the Fire Control Officer is unavailable, the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer or the Shire’s Rangers can also issue a Permit. View Fire Control Officer Contact List
Step 3: Wait for assessment and issue of permit
It can take up to 72 hours for a Fire Control Officer to visit your property and assess your application.
Once your application has been assessed and approved, you will receive your Permit to Burn. Make sure to comply with all guidelines and restrictions indicated in your Permit. For information on what to do prior to burning, refer to the next section.
Preparing for your burn
24 hours before your planned burn
You must also notify your adjoining landowners 24 hours in advance of your intention to burn.
On the day of your planned burn
On the day of your planned burn, you must register your Permit to Burn with:
- Shire of Augusta Margaret River
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA); and
- Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).
To register your Permit, call the numbers provided on the Permit itself. Keep your Permit close by during the call, as the operator will ask for specific details from it.
In case an operator is unavailable and you have to leave a voicemail, remember to clearly state the following:
- Permit number: The unique identifier on your Permit
- Property details: Information about the location intended for burning
- Permit holder's name: The name of the individual responsible for the burn
- Phone number: A contact number for further communication
- Time/date of intended burn: When you plan to conduct the burn.
To ensure a safe burn, please refer to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website for advice on safe burning (before, during and after a burn).
Penalties for non-compliance
Failure to do any of the following may result in a modified penalty of $250 and up to $5,000 should legal action be undertaken:
- Obtain a Permit to Burn
- Comply with all Permit conditions
- Burn in contravention to any information provided in the Notice.
More information and contact
For more information, please contact the Shire on (08) 9780 5255 or email [email protected]