Fire danger period dates announced for 2025/2026

Published on 18 November 2025

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has announced the Fire Danger Period for Mount Alexander Shire will run from Monday 17 November 2025 to Friday 1 May 2026.

This means you cannot light a fire in the open air unless you have a permit or comply with certain requirements.

Mount Alexander Shire Council, the CFA and other emergency management agencies are currently working with communities to plan and prepare for this year’s fire season.

Council’s Emergency Management Coordinator, Phil Harrison, said that now is a great time for residents to prepare for the upcoming Fire Danger Period.

“Getting ready now can make a big difference when the weather heats up,” said Mr Harrison.

“Start by mowing and slashing long grass, pulling out weeds, cleaning gutters and moving firewood or other flammable materials away from your home.

 “It’s also important to review your emergency plan, check your insurance cover and update your emergency kit so you’re ready if a fire does occur.

“The CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au is a great place to find information on how to plan and prepare.”

Normal radio, telephone or internet communications may be disrupted during a disaster, so residents are encouraged to have a working transistor radio with a fresh supply of batteries in their emergency kit.

“Everyone should be prepared to leave early on days of extreme or catastrophic fire danger, and know exactly where they’ll go – whether that’s to friends or family out of the area, or to a nearby major town,” added Mr Harrison.

“Our teams have been busy slashing roadsides to help slow the spread of potential grassfires, and we’re carrying out fire prevention inspections to ensure properties are being maintained and risks are minimised.”

To assist residents to prepare their properties for summer, Council is offering residents free green waste disposal at the Castlemaine and Maldon transfer stations from Saturday 15 November to Sunday 30 November.

For information about free green waste disposal, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/GreenWasteDisposal.

For information about fire restrictions during fire danger period, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can/.

For information about burning off, visit www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.

Visit VicEmergency online at www.emergency.vic.gov.au and download their app for information on how to prepare for fire, and to receive timely information during the event of an emergency.