With the ongoing dry conditions, Douglas Shire Council is reminding residents of the regulations for fires in the shire.

The following fires are strictly prohibited:

• A person must not light or maintain a fire in the open air (including the use of an incinerator) within 100m of a residence, except for the purposes of cooking;
• A fire that causes smoke or other products of combustion (embers etc.) and is likely in the opinion of an authorised person to cause irritation, annoyance or distress to others;
• A fire that in the opinion of an authorised person exposes property to the risk of damage or destruction by fire.

The Bureau of Meteorology has currently assessed the North Tropical Coast and Tablelands as having a “Very High” Fire Danger Rating.

A fine of $652.00 may be issued to residents lighting fires and not complying with the local laws.