OUTDOOR BURNING IN OTAGO
The Otago Regional Council defines outdoor burning as burning in the ground, on the ground, or in a container, outside of a building.
It includes burning in a heap, burning in a drum, burning of standing vegetation, campfires, barbecues, bonfires, hangis, umus and braziers or other solid fuel patio heaters and appliances.
Why is outdoor burning controlled? Smoke from burning gets up your nose, in your eyes and in your clothes. It can be very toxic or just a nuisance to neighbours. Air pollution can be the source of many complaints to us, particularly in urban areas. Air is one of our most valuable resources, and there are things we can do to protect it and ensure it remains as clean as possible. For that reason ORC has an Air Plan which sets out the regulations for what we can do to maintain air quality.
Where is outdoor burning controlled? There are regulations controlling outdoor burning in all parts of Otago. But it is in Air Zones 1 and 2 that we have the most concerns about air quality. The regulations are toughest in those airsheds. Arrowtown, Cromwell, Clyde and Alexandra are all Air Zone 1 towns, while Milton is Air Zone 2.
Air Plan rules The Air Plan stipulates that the only materials that can be burnt outdoors are untreated wood, paper, cardboard or vegetation. The plant material must not be green, so you can’t burn material just cut from living plants. Any burnt material must be thoroughly dry. Wood must not be painted, varnished or treated, or contain clues or other plastics. In addition to the Air Plan, your city or district council’s fire permit requirements apply, but in all cases, the most stringent regulation applies.
What are the penalties? Any breach of these rules will be viewed seriously by ORC and could result in a minimum fine of $300.
More information For more information on the Air Plan or outdoor burning visit our website: www.orc.govt.nz or give us a call on: 0800 474 082.