The Rural Fire Service has announced that the Northern Rivers Zone’s Bush Fire Danger Period will start early this year on Saturday.

The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period runs from 1 October to 31 March, however it may vary due to local conditions.

“The Northern Rivers Zone will start the Bush Fire Danger Period due to significant fire activity in the area following strong winds and low humidity over several days last week combined with the extended ongoing warm and dry conditions,” the RFS said in a Facebook post.

The early start affects the Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle local government areas. The Bush Fire Danger Period has already begun in some other areas of NSW.

“Effective from [12:01am] on Saturday 17 August 2019, if you are planning to maintain a fire in the open, you will need a Fire Permit,” the post said.

“This includes any burning activity that may already be occurring.

“Fire Permits cost nothing from your local Brigade.

“The Northern Rivers Zone will be ensuring that any burning will be limited only to activities that will take less than 24 hours to complete to ensure there is a reduced risk to the community in the event of unfavourable weather conditions being forecast.”