In NSW, fire permits and notifications are required to manage risks, particularly during the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP), which typically runs from October 1st to March 31st annually. For the 2025-2026 season, this period was in effect until March 31, 2026. [1, 2]
1. NSW RFS Requirements (General)
•Permits: During the BFDP, you must obtain a free Fire Permit from the RFS before lighting any fire in the open. Permits are automatically suspended on Total Fire Ban days.
• Notifications: You must give at least 24 hours notice to your neighbours and the NSW RFS before lighting a fire, regardless of whether a permit is required.
• Online Notification: Use the RFS online notification tool to notify of planned burns.
• Safety: The permit holder must be present at the fire site until it is completely extinguished. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
2. The Hills Shire Council
• Permits: Residents in rural zones (RU1, RU2, RU3, RU6) outside the Sydney Fire District may not need a council permit, but they must still obtain an RFS fire permit during the BFDP.
• Notifications: 24 hours notice must be given to adjoining neighbours and the NSW RFS – The Hills District.
• Pile Burns: Piles must be max 2m long and 1.5m high, and only dry/dead vegetation can be burned.
• Contacts: Call (02) 9658 9000 or email [email protected]. [1, 2]
3. Hornsby Shire Council
• Permits: During the BFDP, residents require two forms of permission to conduct a pile burn:
1. A permit from Council.
2. A permit from the Hornsby Fire Control Centre or Fire & Rescue.
• Notifications: 24 hours notice is required to neighbours and the RFS.
• Contacts: RFS Fire Control: (02) 9883 2000; Fire & Rescue: (02) 9493 1071. [1, 2, 3]
Summary Checklist
1. Check Dates: Is it 1st Oct – 31st Mar? (BFDP)
2. Apply for Permit: If in BFDP, get an RFS permit via Guardian Portal.
3. Notify Neighbours: 24 hours in advance.
4. Notify RFS: Online 24 hours in advance.
5. Check Conditions: No burning on Total Fire Ban days. [1, 2, 3, 4]
