Thinking of lighting a fire?

From April 3, people must apply for a fire permit on the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website, www.checkitsalright.nz

The FENZ website will become the only port of call for fire permits when the Gisborne District Council stops issuing them next month.

FENZ area commander for Tairawhiti Charlie Turei recommends all enquiries regarding fire permits should be directed to their website in the first instance.

Council’s Fire Prevention and Vegetation bylaw is no longer valid and complaints regarding overgrown sections and potential fire risks should be directed to FENZ.

A reminder that the city has a permanent restricted fire season, this means any open fires, including incinerators require a permit.

Council’s Air Quality Plan developed under the Resource Management Act also has some restrictions on lighting fires.

“In some cases a resource consent may be required as well as a fire permit – please check with council if you are unsure,” Regulatory Services Manager Sarwan Kumar says.

For any other enquiries, including smoke and odour nuisance from backyard burning, please contact the Gisborne Fire Station on 8679039

ENDS

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