What's a Harvest and Vehicle Movement Ban?

Your questions about Harvest and Vehicle Movement Bans answered.

What’s a Harvest and Vehicle Movement Ban?

A HVMB is a temporary ban on using certain machinery, driving vehicles in specific areas, or undertaking other activities that could start a bushfire or cause one to spread. An HVMB is declared by the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer when there is a high fire danger to reduce the chance of a fire starting or spreading.

What is banned during a HVMB?

All off-road activity for agriculture, business and industry. This includes harvesting operations and 
using engines, vehicles, or machinery that could spark a fire — including motorbikes, quad bikes, chainsaws, excavators, ride-on mowers, and generators.

What is considered off-road?

Off-road includes areas such as 

• paddocks
• bushland 
• uncleared land and 
• land with stubble or long grass.

 

Can I drive down a 4WD track during a HVMB?

Driving is only allowed on gazetted – or official – public roads.  

What’s your number 1 tip during a HVMB?

If in doubt, wait it out. Even if your activity isn’t specifically banned, postpone anything that could pose a fire risk.