City reminds residents of firebreak deadline

The City of Greater Geraldton is reminding property owners and occupiers that the 5 October deadline to clear firebreaks is rapidly approaching.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn is strongly urging property owners and occupiers in the Geraldton region to adhere to the firebreak deadline.

“The temperature may be cool now, but bushfire season is just around the corner and we need to be prepared,” he said.

“Firebreaks are a crucial element that protect not only your own property from bushfires, but they can also stop fires from spreading to adjacent properties.”

Firebreaks serve a valuable role in protecting properties from bushfires during the summer months, even more so now that higher than average rainfall will see an increase in flammable scrub.

Mayor Van Styn also reminded property owners who may not have cleared their firebreaks yet that they are required by Local Government law to do so.

“Once the 5 October deadline has passed, City Rangers will begin conducting fire prevention work inspections and they will have the power to issue infringements for non-compliance,” he said.

“Don’t risk the $250 fine, or worse, losing your life or your home to a devastating fire. Clear your firebreaks and keep them maintained throughout the year.”

Property owners are expected to maintain their firebreaks from 5 October 2016 until 1 May 2017.

Small vacant lots under 0.4ha must be slashed and have Wattle bush removed. Occupied blocks require a three metre clearance of all flammable material around structures and buildings and Wattle bush must be managed.

Larger blocks will also require a mineral earth firebreak installed along the entire external boundary of the land.

To find out more information, pick up a 2016-17 Firebreak Notice from the Civic Centre, or download a copy from the City’s website at www.cgg.wa.gov.au.