Outdoor burning is often a nuisance for neighbours and can be a health hazard. It can also contribute to air pollution. That’s why Environment Canterbury has restricted outdoor burning in some areas and/or at some times of the year.
Bans in place
Currently a ban on outdoor burning is in place on all residential properties in Canterbury.
What can I do with my rubbish instead?
The rules on outdoor burning apply as outlined below. Please be aware that fire authorities and district councils may have fire bans in place any time of the year for fire risk reasons. Also you need to check the conditions for outdoor burning (when and where permitted).
If you do light an outdoor fire without a resource consent when one is required, the consequences could include infringement notices ($300 for a domestic offence), abatement notices and enforcement orders. If the offending is persistent, it could lead to prosecution.
Outdoor burning on residential properties
Outdoor burning on properties zoned residential throughout Canterbury is not permitted at any time of the year without a resource consent from Environment Canterbury.
Note: Deposit for a resource consent is $1,125 and there is no guarantee it will be granted. If you have obtained a resource consent for outdoor burning from Environment Canterbury, you will still have to comply with the safety requirements of your local district or city council. In addition to a resource consent from Environment Canterbury, further fire permits may be required from the Department of Conservation or the relevant Rural Fire Authority.
Conditions of outdoor burning
Where and when outdoor burning is permitted, it is subject to the following conditions:
- Only the following materials are allowed to be burnt: vegetation (including stubble and crop residue), paper, cardboard and untreated wood.
- Rubber tyres, painted wood, wood treated with preservatives, batteries, foam, chipboard and some other materials are not allowed to be burnt.
- Any fire should not cause an offensive or objectionable effect beyond the boundary of the property where the fire is located. Whether an effect is offensive or objectionable is at the discretion of the Environment Canterbury enforcement officer.
Contact us for more information on the rules for outdoor burning.