Residents in designated bushfire zones will be able to clear trees within 10 metres of their home under new laws introduced into state parliament today.
Create a free account to read this article
or signup to continue reading
Premier Mike Baird said residents also would be able to clear shrubs and other vegetation, except for trees, within 50 metres of their home.
Emergency Services Minister Stuart Ayres said the Rural Fire Service would determine the designated bushfire zone areas — known as a ‘‘10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement area’’.
A map of the designated areas would be published once the new laws came into force, he said.
Mr Baird said the government was ‘‘removing regulatory obstacles on homeowners who want to take sensible steps to protect their properties’’.
“The new rules will ensure we cut green and red tape for residents whose homes are in designated areas close to bushland, so they can clear trees and vegetation from their property.
“We have worked closely with the Rural Fire Service to develop these new rules, which will empower landowners who are taking responsibility for minimising the fuel loads near their homes — a key fire prevention goal.”
What do you think of the changes?
