Backyard Burning
Burning in the open (backyard burning in townships)
All burning in the open (backyard burning) has been prohibited in all townships in Mount Barker District Council.
Burning in the open can contribute to pollution. Penalties apply to those that burn in townships that have not gained the correct permit.
Even when the fire danger season has ended, burning in the open in townships requires a permit.
Apply online for a permit available on the Backyard Burning and Fire Permits page.
To see your property falls within the prohibited zone, check the boundary maps below.
Backyard Burning Prohibited Zone Maps
General Guidelines for obtaining an exemption permit for Council are:
- You must live in Council's High Fire Risk Area.
- You must be conducting fuel and hazard reduction work.
- Material to be burnt must be green waste (NO RUBBISH)
- Material must be dry prior to burning.
- Material must be hard to remove, e.g. down a gully or inaccessible by vehicle.
- You must adhere to all conditions of the permit.
NOTE: It is illegal to burn rubbish, furniture, mattresses, plastic or green waste material in the open, anywhere within the Mount Barker District Council.
Air Quality Policy 2016
Under the Air Quality Policy 2016 burning restrictions apply outside of the Fire Danger Season to people living in and around township areas within the Mount Barker District Council.
Even if you have a Rural, Semi Rural, Rural Living (Residential 2), Primary Production, or light Commercial/Industrial property you may still be within a township boundary.
Other Important Information
These permits:
- Require an application in writing
- May require an inspection prior to being issued
- Are issued at the discretion of the authorised officer
- Are not valid on days declared a total fire ban
- May take up to 14 days to be granted from time of application
Please note that Council also provides Free Green Waste Days throughout the year and a fortnightly green waste collection.
For more information please contact Council on 8391 7200 or email: council@mountbarker.sa.gov.au