Prepare Now for Upcoming Fire Danger Period
Published on 15 October 2026
As the warmer months approach, Southern Grampians Shire Council is encouraging residents to start preparing their properties ahead of the upcoming Fire Danger Period.
To support residents in preparing their properties, Council will offer free green waste drop-off at all Transfer Stations from Monday 2 November to Sunday 8 November 2026.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said this is a great opportunity for residents to remove fine fuels such as long grass, leaves, twigs and loose bark from around their homes before summer arrives.
The free green waste program is available for households/residents only, with a limit of one cubic metre per customer per day. Only green waste and small tree branches up to 200mm in diameter will be accepted. Loads will be inspected on arrival, and any contaminated loads containing items such as stumps, treated timber, soil, fencing wire or plastic strapping will be rejected. Commercial loads are not eligible under this arrangement.
Cr Heslin said now is the ideal time for residents to take practical steps to reduce fire risk around their properties.
Council's Fire Prevention Officers will begin inspecting properties across the Shire over the coming weeks to identify potential fire hazards. These inspections play an important role in reducing bushfire risk and helping keep our community safe throughout summer.
“Property owners who need to undertake hazard reduction works will receive a Fire Prevention Notice outlining the required works and the due date for completion.
“If you receive a Fire Prevention Notice, it will clearly explain what work needs to be completed and when it must be finished by, helping to improve the safety of your property and the wider community," Cr Heslin said.
"Keeping grass short, maintaining gardens, trimming overhanging branches and clearing away leaves, bark and twigs can make a significant difference in reducing fire risk.
"Residents can also make use of their FOGO bin and the weekly spring collection service, which continues until the end of November before returning to a fortnightly schedule in December," he said.
Taking action now will help ensure properties are ready when the CFA Fire Danger Period begins.
For more information about Fire Prevention Notices or to report a potential fire hazard, contact Council on 5573 0444 or visit the Council website. Residents can also access practical property preparation resources through the CFA website.
Failure to complete the required works by the due date may result in an infringement notice being issued. Council may also arrange for the works to be carried out by a contractor, with costs recoverable from the property owner.
"Fire prevention is not a one-off task. It requires ongoing attention throughout the warmer months. By working together and taking action early, we can reduce fire risk and help keep our community safe this summer," Cr Heslin said.
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