Find out about fire restrictions and how to get a fire permit in the Queenstown Lakes District.
Fire Restrictions
Fire restrictions are in place all year round. In summer there may be a total fire ban – this will be advertised in local papers and on this website.
When do you need a fire permit?
Permits are required for all fires.
The Fire and Smoke Prevention Bylaw 2008 says that no fires, except for BBQ’s, will be allowed in urban areas. Fires are allowed in the Rural General Zone but only with a permit.
How to get a fire permit
All fire permits are issued by Lakes Environmental.
Send a completed application form along with any additional information and send it to Lakes Environmental, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 or email to enquiries@lakesenv.co.nz
>> Rural fire permit application form (word document)
>> Sample Burn Management Guide (pdf 352kb)
>> Wind Force Scale (pdf 17kb)
>> Fire Permit Guide (pdf 10.4kb)
Rural Fire Plan
>> 2008 Rural Fire Plan (pdf 746kb)
Illegal Fire Lighting
The penalties for lighting a fire without a permit are severe. Costs to suppress the fire - including man hours, appliances, and aircraft - and repairs for any damage caused may be sought from the person responsible.
What to do if you see a fire
Call 111 and ask for the Fire Service. Report what you can see.
Contact the principal rural fire officer
Gordon Bailey
Phone 03 450 0440
Email gordonb@qldc.govt.nz