Campfires will be banned across more Tasmanian national parks from Friday as dry conditions continue to heighten bushfire risk.
Parks and Wildlife has expanded its seasonal campfire ban to include reserves in the Tasman municipal area, covering Lime Bay, Mill Creek and Banksia campgrounds.
The ban takes effect from 2am on Friday.
The move comes as PWS reveals 110 illegal campfires have already been reported this season, despite existing restrictions.
State Fire Manager Katy Edwards said cracking down on rogue campfires was critical to keeping both visitors and communities safe.
“Our priority is community and visitor safety and preventing bushfires from starting,” she said.
“Eliminating abandoned, escaped or poorly constructed campfires is part of our community and visitor safety strategy.”
The expanded ban adds to restrictions already in place at Maria Island, Flinders Island, Narawntapu National Park, Tooms Lake and Snakey Creek Conservation Area.
Reserves across the Glamorgan–Spring Bay, Dorset and Break O’Day municipalities are also affected.
Pot fires are included in the ban due to the risk posed by sparks, embers and ash disposal, while gas stoves and barbecues remain permitted.
Edwards urged campers to check current conditions before heading out.
“We want to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable camping experience and we ask visitors to continue to adhere to these bans,” she said.
PWS said widespread dryness across the landscape prompted the decision to expand restrictions.
The bans will remain in place until further notice, with more areas likely to be added if conditions worsen.
