The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has declared an early end to the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) in the Northern Rivers and Far North Coast regions, due to recent sustained rainfall. 

From this Thursday, February 3, fire permits will no longer be required in the Rural Areas of the Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Tweed Local Government Areas. 

The statutory BFDP was scheduled to end on 31 March 2022, but a decision had been made in consultation with local authorities and stakeholders to end the season at the beginning of February due to the favourable conditions. 

“Even though a fire permit is no longer required in these rural areas, residents must still notify their neighbours and the Rural Fire Service at least 24 hours before burning," said Acting Zone Manager Inspector Boyd Townsend. 

Notifications by landowners of their intention to light a fire on their properties can also be done on line by visiting the RFS website http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP/burn-notifications 

Inspector Townsend said "Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment if they are not managed correctly, and we ask that people take care and ensure they have planned their activity.” 

For further information, Lismore residents can contact the Northern Rivers Fire Control Centre on (02) 6663 0000

For current incidents or major fire updates visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au