Fire and heat

2023/24 fire season update

The following points provide some general advice for the upcoming fire season, through alerts and briefings Council has attended with relevant government departments, authorities and emergency services:

  • The Bureau of Meteorology has declared El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events, meaning warmer and drier conditions will be more likely over spring and summer for parts of Australia.
  • The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has declared that the Fire Danger Period for the Macedon Ranges has ended (began at 1am on 27 November 2023 ended on 15 April 2024).
  • Residents are encouraged to check the Fire Danger Rating and the four-day forecast daily. The Macedon Ranges is in the Central area.

  • Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFRV) conduct a number of planned burns throughout the year. Find out more at Planned Burns Victoria.

For the latest information on current incidents and alerts, visit VicEmergency.

You can find more information below on preparing for fire and heat, and about what fire preparedness measures Council undertakes.

Burning off

Burning off grass, stubble, weeds, undergrowth or other vegetation is a great way to clean up your property, but there are conditions around when you are allowed to do this.

Council preparations for the fire season

We complete roadside slashing of Council-managed roads and our Municipal Fire Prevention Officers conduct annual property inspections to check for fire hazards in the lead up to the Fire Danger Period.

Fire Danger Period

The CFA declares a fire danger period each year. No fire may be lit in the open air without a permit. Restrictions also apply outside the fire danger period.

Heatwaves and Hot Days

Where to go and what to do in the event of a heatwave or extremely hot day.

Horses and livestock

Information for horse and livestock owners on how to be prepared in case of, and during, an emergency.

Municipal Fire Management Plan

The Municipal Fire Management Plan provides information to help the community reduce the risk and consequences of fire in the Macedon Ranges.

Neighbourhood Safer Places

Neighbourhood Safer Places are places of last resort , where you go when your bushfire survival plan has failed.

Prepare yourself and your property for fire

What you can do to prepare your family and property against the risk of bushfire.

Smoke alarms in the home

Did you know it has been a requirement to install smoke alarms in all residential dwellings for more than 20 years?

Smoke and your health

Find out about how smoke can impact air quality and your health.

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