Bush Fire Danger Period Commences 1 August Across Northern Tablelands

Download Media Release PDF HERE

29 July 2025

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has confirmed the start of the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) in the Glen Innes Severn, Inverell, and Tenterfield Local Government Areas (LGAs), commencing Friday 1 August 2025.

From this date, fire permits will be required for the lighting of fires in the open. Fire permits help landholders plan for safe burns and ensure that risks to the community are properly managed.

Superintendent Scott Mack, District Manager of the NSW RFS Northern Tablelands Team, said the permit system plays a critical role in bush fire prevention and community safety.

“With the Bush Fire Danger Period beginning on the 1st of August, anyone wishing to carry out burning in the open must first obtain a fire permit,” Superintendent Mack said.

“We support landholders in conducting hazard reduction, but it needs to be done safely. Fire permits help ensure that property owners consider weather conditions, fire control measures, and potential impacts on neighbouring properties. A poorly managed burn can quickly escalate and become a threat to the wider community.”

Permits can be obtained from local brigade fire permit officers or by contacting the Northern Tablelands Fire Control Centre. All permit holders must comply with the conditions listed on the permit and ensure that there is appropriate equipment, water supply, and personnel on-site to manage the burn safely.

To support a streamlined and safe process for burning, a dedicated SMS-only number has been established for the submission of permit details and burn notifications.

Permit Lodgement and Notification Number: 0429 322 555

• Landholders who receive a paper-based fire permit from a local brigade or Fire Control Centre are asked to text a clear photo of their permit to this number for lodgement.

• Landholders who apply for fire permits online via www.rfs.nsw.gov.au do not need to send a copy, as these permits are automatically logged.

Regardless of how the permit is obtained, all landholders must notify the NSW RFS at least 24 hours before lighting their burn. This can be done by either:

• Texting the permit number, name, burn location, and planned date(s) to 0429 322 555, or

• Submitting the notification online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify

The 1300 141 119 burn notification line is no longer in use.

Please note: 0429 322 555 is for SMS only. Phone calls and voicemails will not be answered.

The community is reminded that fire permits can be suspended or cancelled at any time if weather conditions change or if there are increased risks to public safety. Burning without a permit during the Bush Fire Danger Period is an offence and may attract significant penalties.

For more information contact the State Duty Media Officer on 9898 1855.

For current incidents or alerts and warnings visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au