Fire permit period ends as fuel reduction burns begin

The fire permit season has come to an end, but there are concerns that fuel reduction burns and the wine harvest will overlap, increasing the risk of smoke affecting grapes.

Those wanting to conduct burns will no longer need a fire period to do so.

Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) deputy Matt Lowe said the state experienced a difficult bushfire season with 21 properties destroyed and several properties and vehicles damaged in significant bushfires in Dolphin Sands and Stieglitz in late 2025.

“A cool spring, followed by a mild summer with minimal rainfall, has meant that there was significant fuel in the landscape which we have been monitoring throughout the season,” Mr Lowe said.

“A recent review of conditions, including the Soil Dryness Index and Drought Factor, has determined that all associated fire risks have significantly lessened.

“This now allows for the Fire Permit Period – which started on 16 December 2025 - across the state to be revoked, however all landowners are encouraged to register burns.

“Although fire permits will no longer be required across the state, all landowners are encouraged to register burns in advance and take caution when burning on their property.”

Mr Lowe said the TFS was committed to community safety as property owners begin fuel reduction burn-offs.

“By calling us on 1800 000 699 and registering your burn, you will ensure your local brigade is aware of your plans should they need to respond, and you prevent having them turn up to your property unnecessarily.

“Anyone conducting a burn needs to be capable of managing the fire and aware of weather conditions to reduce the impact of smoke.

“Make sure your neighbours are aware of your plans, and that your burn won’t adversely affect their health, or farming operations, particularly the wine industry, which can be vulnerable to smoke.

“It’s important to remember, landowners are responsible for any damage caused by fires that escape their land.”

Wine Tasmania CEO Sheralee Davies said it has been a very different grape growing season from any other over the past three decades.

“A very cool spring followed by a mild summer and little rainfall has resulted in grapes ripening much slower than usual,” Ms Davies said.

“Some growers have commenced harvesting their first wine grapes some 3-4 weeks later than normal, while some growers haven’t even commenced harvesting yet.

“This means that harvest activity and fuel reduction fires will overlap this season more than any other season in recent times.

“We understand the need for fuel reduction fires to occur to support community safety, and that fire can be a management tool for other agriculture.”

Ms Davis said that landowners should talk with nearby vineyards before lighting a fire.

“Sometimes there may be limited risk based on weather conditions and the stage of harvest.

“Sometimes a short postponement may be all that’s needed to avoid potential damage.

“If you are planning to light a fire, please get in touch directly with nearby wine producers to discuss proposed timing, progress on harvesting and potential risks.”