The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has announced the Bush Fire Danger Period will commence in the Wingecarribee Shire and Wollondilly Shire areas on 14 September 2026, urging residents to prepare now due to underlying dry conditions and forecasts indicating a continuation of warmer and dryer than normal conditions.
Across NSW, an additional 27 Local Government Areas commenced their Bush Fire Danger Period on 1 September, ahead of the statewide statutory commencement on 1 October. This follows four Local Government Areas which commenced on 1 August and the AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring identifying above normal fire potential across parts of northern and
south-eastern NSW.
RFS Superintendent Daniel Osborne said the declaration reflects the increased fire risk across the
area.
“We are experiencing warmer and dryer than normal conditions and beginning the Bush Fire Danger
Period ensures the community understands the increased risk and takes steps to prepare,”
Superintendent Osborne said.
“People should use this time to prepare their properties and review their bush fire survival plans.”
“Having a bush fire survival plan means everyone in the household knows what to do on days of
increased fire danger and if a fire threatens.
“Recent RFS research found that while 70 per cent of people say they have a bush fire plan, less than
half have taken steps to prepare their property, with many unaware that there are free and easy RFS
resources and actions available to help them prepare.
“Simple actions can make a difference. Clear leaves from gutters, remove flammable materials from
around your home and ensure hoses can reach all sides of your property.”
During the Bush Fire Danger Period, landowners and managers must obtain a Fire Permit from their
local Fire Control Centre before lighting any fire, including for hazard reduction.
On Total Fire Ban days, all Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates are automatically suspended.
