Ratepayers are advised that inspections of properties for fire hazards, or potential fire hazards, by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer will commence in Rutherglen, Wahgunyah, Chiltern, Barnawartha, Yackandandah, Kiewa-Tangambalanga, Beechworth and Stanley townships over coming weeks depending on weather conditions.
Owners/occupiers whose properties are overgrown with grass, weeds or other vegetation or contain rubbish which constitutes or will constitute a fire hazard, are requested to clean them up as soon as possible.
Following the inspections, Fire Prevention Notices will be issued, where necessary, requiring hazards to be removed within fourteen days of the notice. Non-compliance with directions will result in work being carried out by Council at the expense of the owners.
The Country Fire Authority Act 1958 prescribes the penalty for non-compliance of $1,976 for an on the spot fine, or a fine of up to $23,760 or twelve months prison or both.
Residents are also advised that permits to burn are required to be obtained from the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer, or by the Country Fire Authority, by any person wishing to burn off during the Declared Fire Danger Period.
Further information relating to fire prevention should be directed to Nick McDonald, Municipal Fire Prevention Officer on 03 57288000.