The City of Victor Harbor’s Fire Prevention Team will soon begin inspecting properties and rural allotments to assess fire danger risks. 

The council has advised landholders to clean up properties now, ahead of the fire danger season.

Bushfire prevention is a year-round responsibility and it is especially important in the lead up to summer.

Landowners are responsible for preparing their property and taking all reasonable steps to reduce the risk of fire starting or spreading through their land. 

This responsibility is provided for within the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005.

The council may issue a Hazard Reduction Notice (Section 105F Notice) if a landowner fails to reduce the fire hazard or to protect a property from fire, or prevent/ inhibit the outbreak of fire or the spread of fire through the land.

To help protect your property and the wider community:

• Reduce all grass, weed plants and undergrowth to a maximum height of 10cm.
• Prune low tree branches from ground level up to two metres in height.
• Cut back overhanging trees and remove leaves and other debris from gutters.
• Remove bark, mulch, woodpiles and other flammable materials away from structures.
• Ensure the property allows clear and unimpeded access for fire fighting vehicles.
• Rural and large blocks also need to establish a fire break at least five metres wide as near as practicable to the boundary and within 20 metres of any dwelling (greater if on a slope) and within five metres of any sheds and garages.

Rural and large blocks also need to establish a fire break at least five metres wide as near as practicable to the boundary and within 20 metres of any dwelling (greater if on a slope) and within five metres of any sheds and garages.

For more information on bushfire prevention responsibilities for land owners visit the CFS website.