Fire in Urban Areas
In the urban fire service districts comprising of Blenheim, Ward, Seddon, Renwick, Picton, Havelock and Wairau Valley, the New Zealand Fire Service provides fire protection and fire-fighting resources at no cost.
Under the Fire Service Act 1975 a fire service levy attached to insurance premiums funds the cost of New Zealand Fire Service personnel fighting fires and responding to emergency situations.
In accordance with legislation fire services do not charge for attending fires and other emergencies in urban fire service districts.
For all Emergencies ring 111
The emergency service provider will need accurate information to minimise response time.
When calling 111 it is important to remain calm.
Give the operator the following information:
- Your name
- Property name
- Street address or RAPID number
- The type of assistance required eg; fire, ambulance, police
- The nearest intersection if known
If possible always leave a member of your family near the phone in case the operator needs further information.
Fire Prevention and Fire Hazards in Urban Areas
The control of fire hazards and fire prevention in urban fire service districts is administered under Council's Fire Bylaws.
Barbecues, incinerators, braziers etc
Fire permits are not required for approved incinerators, gas barbecues and solid fuel barbecues provided the fire is well contained within the unit. Braziers, because of their open nature, do require a fire permit in all areas as they are considered an open fire.
What constitutes an approved incinerator?
An old oil drum is not normally considered an approved incinerator. However, provided it is covered with a fine mesh to stop burning materials blowing out and hot embers cannot fall out the bottom of the drum, it will be considered permissible.
All incinerators, burning drums and solid fuel barbecues must be set up at least 3 metres from property boundaries, buildings and all dry materials that could catch fire.
Urban Burning Guide (570 Kb)