Council’s Fire Prevention Officers have completed the first round of fire hazard inspections at the start of November. Many property owners have since then already undertaken work to the standards required under the Country Fire Authority Act during the Fire Danger Period.
However, due to the weather it is evident grass has already re-grown. Grass must be kept below 100mm during the entire Fire Danger Period in accordance with the Country Fire Authority Act. Council would like to remind the community to please inspect your properties and consider if further maintenance is required before the due date of any Fire Prevention Notices received.
If you did not receive a Fire Prevention Notice during the November inspections, you may receive one in December, if your grass is not below 100mm.
This year's Fire Danger Period commenced on 24 November 2025 at 1am.
Why are Fire Prevention Notices issued?
Each summer, the CFA introduces Fire Restrictions for Golden Plains Shire based on weather conditions and vegetation drying (fuel curing) leading up to the season. During the Fire Danger Period, landowners must manage fine fuels on their properties to reduce fire risk. Fire Prevention Notices are issued to ensure compliance, as required under the CFA Act, and councils conduct inspections to enforce these standards.
What are the requirements?
- Residential properties: Grass must be kept below 100mm throughout the Fire Danger Period.
- Properties over two hectares: Grass must be maintained below 100mm for at least 20 metres around houses and outbuildings.
- Fire breaks: Council may also require fire breaks along property boundaries to help protect neighbouring properties.
Council’s Roadsides
Council’s roadside slashing program has commenced, with many roads already slashed. Please also note that major roads are slashed by the state government through the Department of Transport and Planning.
What can’t Council do?
The CFA Act does not allow councils to issue Fire Prevention Notices on land and roadsides owned by other State Government bodies and authorities. If you have concerns about high grass and vegetation on land owned by State Government body or authority, please contact the relevant landowner.
If you are unsure what State Government body or authority owns the land you are concerned with, please do not hesitate to contact Council’s Fire Prevention Officers by calling 5220 7111 for further information.