Golden Plains Shire Council would like to advise landholders of possible delays when applying for a Schedule 13 Permit to Burn during the remainder of the 2018/19 Fire Danger Period.
Like many other municipalities across the state, Council is transitioning away from issuing Schedule 13 Permits to Burn due to the inherent risks associated with fire within the Fire Danger Period.
Golden Plains Shire Council are working with the Country Fire Authority to sign off on the permits.
WHAT IS A PERMIT TO BURN?
A Permit to Burn allows land owners or their representatives to conduct stubble burning for agricultural purposes during the Fire Danger Period. Previously, the applicant applied to Council, via the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer (MFPO). The MFPO assessed the information and, utilising geographical software, inspected the property. If all the information was correct, a permit was issued.
WHAT HAS CHANGED?
In October 2018 Golden Plains Shire Council joined many other municipalities across the state in transferring the sign-off responsibilities of the permits, due to the risk of injury and property damage, and has engaged CFA to finalise the process.
WHAT HAPPENS NOW?
As Council transitions away from the Schedule 13 Permit to Burn process, the following interim steps will be in place during the 2018-19 Fire Danger Period:
• Applications will be available from the Council offices at Bannockburn, Linton and Smythesdale or on the Golden Plains Shire website here.
• Applicants can submit their applications in person, via email or post to Golden Plains Shire Council
• Council will verify all information of the subject land
• Council will forward the application to the relevant CFA Regional Office, which will contact the applicant if approved.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Landholders will be kept informed of any changes to the permit process prior to the 2019/20 Fire Danger Period.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer on 5220 7111.