From today, Thursday, October 1, anyone wanting to light a fire in the Hawkesbury Local Government Area must have a permit.
The comes as the NSW Rural Fire Service calls a start to the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period.
"With conditions becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, people now need to be extremely careful when using fire," said NSW RFS inspector Timothy Seary.
"With the commencement of the Bsh Fire Danger Period, anybody wishing to light a fire on their property will require a permit from their local fire station or fire control centre.
"However, even with a permit you need to check whether a total fire ban is in force before lighting any fires."
Inspector Seary said that the RFS encouraged all residents to continue their hazard reduction activities and ensure their properties were properly prepared for the bush fire season.
"We have all recently seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly advise residents to contact their local brigades and use their expertise to assist in carrying out safe and successful hazard reductions," he said.
"Never leave a fire unattended and always ensure you have your firefighting equipment on hand, such as a full knapsack, spray pumper or hand-held chemical fire extinguisher in good working order.
If fire does escape, it is essential to call triple zero (000) immediately so that Emergency Services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage.
"Serious penalties, including fines and/or imprisonment, apply for allowing a fire to escape and damage property nd the environment."
Contact: Hawkesbury Rural Fire District on 4560 6400 or visit rfs.nsw.gov.au
