Tasmanians will need to obtain fire permits before lighting any fires across the entire state from 2am today, authorities have announced.
The decision comes after a number of “significant escaped burns” were reported in recent weeks, prompting the Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) to implement stricter fire management protocols.
TFS Deputy Chief Officer Matt Lowe said the restrictions come after extensive consultation and a review of current and forecast conditions.
“While grassland curing has not yet progressed to present significant fire risk, grass growth is significant this season and will likely present a hazard in coming months,” he said.
“By introducing fire permits, we are implementing measures to allow Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) to mandate and monitor fires in the landscape during expected spikes in fire danger and mitigate the risk of bushfires as best as possible.”
Lowe said permits are free and can be obtained online, from local fire brigades or by calling 1800 000 699.
They come with clear conditions to ensure any burn is carried out as safely as possible, Lowe said.
“As we head into bushfire season, it’s important for everyone to be prepared and to have a plan to keep safe if they’re impacted by a bushfire,” he said.
The permit period will also coincide with seasonal campfire bans currently in place across national parks and reserves in Flinders, King Island, Dorset, Break O’Day, Sorell, Glamorgan-Spring Bay, including Maria Island and Narawntapu National Park.
