Fire Permit

Why you need a permit for a burn-off

Open air fires can easily get out of control and are potentially very dangerous. They can put people's lives, buildings, homes, livestock and crops at risk, if it is not carried out carefully and responsibly. We have the responsibility as the Rural Fire Authority for the Hurunui District, to ensure that any such danger is minimised.

We do this by requiring you to apply for a Fire Permit when there is a high danger risk and providing advice on how to carry out a safer burn in these conditions.

What is a Fire Permit?

It is a legal document that authorises a person to light a fire, under the conditions set out in that permit. 

The responsibility to conduct a safe burn is still yours

You will require a Fire Permit to burn outside in the open air whenever we impose a "Restricted Fire Season" or a "Prohibited Fire Season". 

About your Fire Permit

Fire Permits are not normally issued over the phone; a Rural Fire Officer authorised by Hurunui District Council will need to inspect your burn site in order to determine if you should be issued a Fire Permit. 

Don't light the fire until you receive the Permit as there may be special conditions attached. Read the Permit carefully before lighting your fire.

We work in cooperation with other fire authorities including NZ Fire Service, Department of Conservation and Ashley Rural Fire District.

Fire fighting is a costly operation that is partly funded by our ratepayers. Preventing fires will keep rates down.

If you cause a fire you may be charged for the cost of extinguishing it. If the NZ Fire Service assists they may also charge and this cost may also be passed on to you.

Fires spread quickly, act fast if anything goes wrong.
Call the NZ Fire Service on the '111' emergency number immediately

For more information please contact the Council on ph: 03 314 8816.