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Rural Fire

We live in sunny Hawke's Bay, which means we have to be a bit sensible about lighting fires, especially in our rural areas. While Council is no longer in charge of permitting, here are some handy tips to point you in the right direction.

Rural Fire

Council no longer governs fire and emergency activity in the District. This is all the responsibility of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).

All fire permitting enquiries now go to Fire and Emergency New Zealand. The Council no longer deals with fire seasons or permitting.  Please use the contact details below:

To see current fire season details please visit the fire permit system pages where you will find an interactive fire season map where you can find your region

Overgrown Sections

An overgrown, unkempt section is not just an eyesore. It can also be a fire hazard.  

Long, dry grass can be fuel for a fire that starts on the property or spreads from elsewhere. Overgrowth can also be a breeding ground for rats and vermin, flies, mosquitoes and other insects. These pests can transmit disease.

To reduce these risks, make sure your section is well maintained. Cut long grass regularly and clear the property of loose rubbish.

If you're a renter, you might want to talk with your landlord about who has responsibility for maintaining the section. 

Dealing with overgrown sections

Council will only deal with overgrown sections if it presents a potential risk to health; for example, if it provides a breeding ground for rats and vermin.

If there's a property in your neighbourhood that you believe is causing a fire hazard due to an unkempt section, you might first try talking to the property owner.

If this does not resolve the problem, you can contact FENZ by completing this online form (make sure you take photos of the property to attach to the online form) or calling FENZ on 0800 336 942.

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