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Restricted fire season in place from December 15

Tuesday 2 December 2008, 6:26PM

By Papakura District Council

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PAPAKURA

A Restricted Fire Season will be in place in the Papakura District from Monday December 15.


During the Restricted Fire Season, for all areas outside ARC Urban Air Quality Management Area, permits will be required for all fires in the open air unless it is contained within an incinerator fitted with a lid or grate to prevent ember transfer.


Small braziers, barbecues (wood and gas types) and small ethnic cooking fires do not require a permit. Council Principal Rural Fire Officer Andy Baker advises however that if residents plan to have an open fire for a cooking fire they should phone him on 027 2865754 to discuss it. Permits can be obtained by making application to the Papakura District Council either in person at the council office or over the phone. There is no charge for applying for a fire permit.


The Auckland Regional Council does not permit open fires within its designated Urban Air Quality Management Areas which is primarily the urban parts of Papakura. Maps of these areas can be found on the ARC website – www.arc.govt.nz


Mr Baker stresses that fires can be a great tool but can also be devastating if they get out of control. He reminds people that they should follow some simple tips for managing the risks fires can present including:

Never leave a fire unattended

Only light fires (other than for cooking or heating) during the day so that they can reach peak intensity and be most efficient during the driest part of the day.

Ensure there is no smoke, ash or other fire associated nuisance to neighbouring properties or road users.
Have some means of containing or extinguishing fires.

Monitor the weather, in particular the wind which can turn a small fire into an out of control and dangerous blaze in seconds. Do not light a fire in strong winds and be aware that wind direction and strength can change quickly without warning.

Make sure the area where you are having the fire is clear of any combustible material that could cause the fire to spread and is a safe, clear distance from any structure, tree, hedge, fence and overhead powerline.-


He also reminds people that if they light a fire without a permit, in an Urban Air Quality Management Area or even have a permitted fire that gets out of control, they may be liable for any fire suppression costs or damage caused by the fire and could also be prosecuted.


In some areas he says, if fire danger levels get too high, a permit may not be issued.