From December 1 it will be illegal to collect firewood from public land.
“Domestic firewood is a shared public resource that needs to be managed in a sustainable way into the future,” Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Loddon Mallee regional manager Paul Bates said.
“Firewood can only be collected from designated firewood collection areas of state forests during firewood collection seasons which run from March 1 to June 30 and September 1 to November 30.
“Fire prevention is also one of the key reasons collection season closes prior to December each year when the risk of bushfire is highest, while also allowing the public spaces to be used for a range of recreational purposes over summer.
“As firewood is a limited resource, FFMVic is currently reviewing firewood collection restrictions in parts of central Victoria.
“The new restrictions will prioritise firewood for local residents and ensure we continue to have sustainable firewood on public land into the future.”
Under the Forest Act 1958, people caught breaking firewood collection rules can face penalties of up to $9087 and/or up to a year in prison, if the matter is taken to court. Vehicles and equipment may also be seized.
Any information the community may have about the illegal removal of firewood for sale can be reported to DELWP on 136 186.
For the full list of rules of firewood collection in state forests, go to www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/firewood-collection-in-your-region
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