Urban fires
Burning household rubbish or green waste is banned on sections less than 5,000m² in urban areas serviced by weekly rubbish collections.
Outdoor fires are still permitted for cooking or heating, such as barbecues, hangi, chiminea or braziers. Beach bonfires are not allowed.
Any burning on sections over 5,000m² in urban areas must not harm the environment or create a nuisance to neighbours.
The Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) transferred its powers under the Resource Management Act to the Council to regulate and enforce Rule 34 of the RAQP. Rule 34 of the RAQP relates to the combustion of waste material within defined urban areas.
See the full Regional Air Quality Plan at the Taranaki Regional Council website. Or view the Regional Air Quality Urban Areas map.
The Council also protects the public from nuisance caused by smoke from fires and to maintain public health and safety (other than in relation to fire safety, which is governed by the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017) under the Fire and Smoke Bylaw.
If you have safety concerns call Fire and Emergency New Zealand on 111.
Talk to your neighbour and ask them to put out the fire out until conditions are more suitable. If this does not work or you have concerns about a fire that are smoke related please phone us on 06 759 6060.
For information on installing a wood or pellet burning fire, please see our webpage on wood burners.
Depending on the season, fire restrictions may be in place. If you want to light a fire you may need a permit. Check the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website before lighting a fire. Lighting a fire during a restricted or prohibited fire season without a permit is an offence and can result in a fine.
Fires on public land, e.g. beaches and reserves, are banned.
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Page last updated: 02:05pm Tue 30 April 2024