Recent wet weather following the prolonged dry spell has seen a significant rise in the number of people disposing of rubbish by burning, and an equally significant rise in the number of fire related complaints to Waipa District Council.
While the rural fire restrictions were lifted at the end of April, restrictions in urban areas remain all year round. If residents are unsure about which fire area their property is in, they should check with Council.
WDC Environmental Safety Manager Jennie McFarlane says that while the urban areas of Kihikihi and Te Awamutu have been subject to fire restrictions since June 2000, the revised 2007 bylaw brought in some new areas, and new regulations.
“A number of smaller communities including Karapiro, Pirongia and Ohaupo became classified as urban fire areas in 2007 with the adoption of the Waipa District Fire Control Bylaw, and a new 100 metre ‘buffer’ zone around urban areas was also introduced”.
Regardless of the fire area that residents live in, (and whether a permit has been issued), it is prohibited to cause a nuisance to other people. This may include the burning of objects that cause excessive smoke, fumes and ash, or allowing a fire to get out of control.
“Council has previously prosecuted for fire offences, and a number of people have received infringement notices and fines for fire related offences. Others can expect similar action if they break the rules” says Mrs McFarlane.
Nuisance fires should be reported to Council, however if a fire is endangering people or property, call 111.
A copy of the Waipa District Fire Control Bylaw 2007 is available for viewing on Council’s website www.waipadc.govt.nz or at either Council office. Information brochures are also available.
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