Fire ban lifted but restrictions still apply

The Far North District Council today withdrew the total ban on lighting fires in the open.

However a Restricted Fire Season has been re-introduced which means permits are required before a fire can be ignited.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Lance Johnston said today recent rain plus a short to long term forecast indicating a similar weather pattern had encouraging the down-grading of the fire alert.

"We have had sufficient rain over the past two weeks to lower the fire weather danger levels which now sit within the criteria for a restricted fire season. It now all depends on the weather -If regular rain continues there should be no need to re-impose a total fire ban," he said.

Exceptions to the requirement for a fire permit were gas barbeques, purpose designed solid fuel barbeques and incinerators with spark arrestors.

"If in doubt take the cost-free option and contact the council before lighting a fire," he said.