This weekend marks the start of the Restricted Fire Season in the Western Bay sub-region, and from Saturday all rural fires in the open will require permits.

The restricted fire season lasts from October 1 to April 30 each year.

Firefighters are called to a number scrub fires around this time of the year. File photo.

Season permits are being issued by Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority for the first time this season.

Moana zone manager Alan Pearce says there will be no significant changes to the process for applying for a permit.

'Despite the name change, your fire permits will still be processed by Western Bay Council, under the same conditions as before and advice on rural fire can still be obtained by contacting the nearest Council office.”

Applications for fire permits are now open and can be completed for free at www.westernbay.govt.nz or www.pumicelands.co.nz. The website will show the current fire season status, fire danger and all safety information.

Residents in Tauranga City Rural areas will continue to have their applications processed by Tauranga City Council or Pumicelands.

The following rules apply, says Alan.

• Green material should be left to dry for at least one month prior to burning to prevent smoke nuisance to neighbouring properties
• Burning of plastics, waste oil or rubber tyres is illegal as it results in harmful contaminants being released into the environment
• Wind conditions should be considered at the time of burning to minimise smoke nuisance to neighbours.

Alan also reminds people that conditions at this time of year are always changeable and anyone wanting to light fires must be extra vigilant and ensure the fire is never unattended.

'Anyone with a fire permit must check the conditions of their permit before lighting any fires.”