Burning off
Burning of garden refuse in backyards to remove fuel loads and unwanted vegetation is a significant contributor to smoke haze and nuisance. Smoke and other forms of air pollution can adversely affect the health of people with respiratory conditions. Smoke also reduces amenity for other residents by soiling washing and placing soot and ash on dwellings. Additionally, burning near major roadways can cause a hazard to motorists.
Although some people associate smoke with living in rural areas, it is important that the impacts of garden refuse burning are taken into consideration before lighting up.
Do you need to burn?
Residents should consider alternative means to get rid of garden refuse other than burning. These methods may include:
Burning is prohibited at all times if the Fire Danger rating is ‘HIGH’ or above for the Fire Weather District, and also when a Total Fire Ban and/or a Harvest and Vehicle Movement Ban has been declared.
For more information on Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans check our website for important announcements or visit Department of Fire & Emergency Services
Unrestricted Burning – between 1 June and 30 September each year
Garden refuse may be burnt without a permit during the unrestricted period between 1 June and 30 September each year. The burning restrictions stated in the City of Armadale Environment, Animals and Nuisance Local Laws 2002 are to be adhered to at all times.
Restricted Burning – between 1 April and 31 May and between 1 October and 30 November each year.
For more information on restricted burning and permits visit our Bushfire and Emergency Management page here.
Key points that should be considered before burning off
Weather
Check for mild weather conditions for the next several days at www.bom.gov.au do not burn if strong winds and dry conditions are forecast. Burning is also prohibited if the Western Australian Bureau of Meteorology has issued an air dispersion or haze alert.
If smoke from other fires is visible as a flat and distinct low level layer then any smoke you produce is also likely to be trapped and cause a possible nuisance.
Notify your neighbours
If you intend to burn, always give your neighbours plenty of notice. This will give them an opportunity to manage any respiratory conditions, take washing off the line or close windows.
Be prepared to be flexible, and if a neighbour requests you move your burn to another day consider re-scheduling.
Condition of the garden refuse
Material that is green or wet will create a lot of smoke and will not burn efficiently. Only burn dry, dead material to minimise smoke.
Consider covering stockpiled material with a tarpaulin to prevent it getting wet. Piles of vegetation may appear dry on the surface but may still be wet underneath.
Size of burn
It is better to have a smaller pile and gradually add material. Be aware that adding wet or excess fuel will smother the fire and result in more smoke being generated.
Make sure you are burning manageable piles, and consider waiting a few days between burning piles to allow neighbours some respite.
Burning safely
Make sure all piles or burns are fully extinguished, before you leave them. You must comply with the following:
There is to be no burning on a Sunday or Public Holiday
Burning is not permitted on properties less than 1,200m2
The smoke must not cause a nuisance to any person
The smoke must not create a traffic hazard
Burning of the following items are prohibited at all times
Green or wet material
Non timber based building materials
Rubber or plastic, including plastic mulch, plant pots and packaging materials
Furnishings and carpet
Manufactured chemicals
Petroleum or oil based products
Paint, including any container in which paint is kept
Food waste
Manure and straw
Other offensive, noxious or toxic matter that is likely to cause a nuisance or a public health risk to any other person
Residents should ensure correct disposal of these items. These methods may include:
For more information on household waste disposal options visit our ‘Take’ section of the website.
Penalties may apply if a person is deemed to not comply with these requirements and conditions set out in the City of Armadale Environment, Animals and Nuisance Local Laws 2002.
Lodge a formal complaint
Do you have a concern about smoke in your neighbourhood? The City recommends you first approach the person causing the issue to explain how it is affecting you. Often they may not realise that they are disturbing other residents.
If you wish to have your complaint formally investigated by City, please complete and return the form below.
If you have an enquiry regarding smoke pollution, please contact us.
