Domestic burning permits to be phased out from 2025

The Murray Bridge council will no longer issue domestic burning permits to households in the township after the 2025 fire danger season.

The council announced as much last week in response to concerns raised by locals regarding smoke/odour irritants and potential health impacts on individuals with respiratory difficulties.

In accordance with South Australian environment protection policy, the council’s authorised officers have traditionally issued domestic burning permits outside the fire danger season.

Permits are usually issued for the disposal of garden waste, such as fallen tree branches and garden pruning.

The phase-out of the permits aligned with the council’s goals to improve community health, Rural City of Murray Bridge CEO Heather Barclay said.

The council aimed to achieve this goal by reducing smoke emissions and promoting environmentally friendly practices.

Exemption permits would still be considered for special circumstances such as ridding a yard of noxious weeds.

“Being bushfire-ready is a year-round responsibility … (and) many residents take the opportunity to burn off green waste during the cooler months,” Ms Barclay said.

“(But) council has several environmentally friendly alternative methods that can be explored to manage green waste all year round.”

She encouraged residents to explore alternative methods of mitigating green waste, such as:

• Using green bins: Residents can dispose of their green waste using the provided green bins, which are collected fortnightly.
• Composting and mulching: These methods not only reduce waste but also benefit your garden by enriching the soil and conserving water.
• Free green waste days: The Brinkley waste transfer facility offers four free green waste weekends.

Fire danger season usually runs from November to April each year; the Country Fire Service typically announces dates for the Murraylands and other regions in spring.

• More information on waste management: www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au.