Firebreaks

Firebreaks help reduce the spread and intensity of bushfires and provide safer access for emergency services.

In the Shire of Nannup, all landowners and occupiers must complete fire prevention works in accordance with the current Bushfire Risk Compliance Notice, issued under section 33 of the Bush Fires Act 1954.

Required works must be completed before 3 November and maintained until 30 April each year, unless otherwise stated in the current Notice. Property owners and occupiers should check the requirements for their zoning and complete works early where possible.

If the standard requirements are not practical for your property, you may apply for a variation before 31 October. Approved variations must be in place by 3 November and maintained for the full compliance period.

Quick Actions 

  • Download the current Bushfire Risk Compliance Notice
  • Check your property zoning
  • Apply for a firebreak Variation
  • Contact Shire Ranger Services

Why Firebreaks Matter 

Preparing your property firebreaks before bushfire season helps protect your property people, homes, livestock, businesses, infrastructure and neighbouring properties.

Well-maintained firebreaks and reduced fuel loads can slow the spread of bushfires, improve access for emergency services and support safer firefighting operations. 

Your Responsibilities 

If you own or occupy land within the Shire of Nannup, you are responsible for:

  • Reading the current Firebreak Compliance Notice.
  • Determining the requirements that apply to your property.
  • Completing all required firebreak and hazard reduction works by the compliance period commencing 3 November. 
  • Maintaining compliance until 30 April, or as otherwise specified in the current Firebreak Notice.
  • Ensuring contractors or property managers acting on your behalf also meet these requirements.

 Compliance must be maintained for the full compliance period, not just achieved once.  

Property Zoning Requirements 

Firebreak requirements vary depending on your property’s zoning, land use and site conditions. Before commencing works, refer to the current Firebreak Compliance Notice to confirm the requirements that apply to your property.

  •  Urban Land
  • Rural Managed Land
  • Rural Unmanaged Land
  • Rural Residential
  • APZ
  • Special requirements

If you are unsure of your property’s zoning, refer to the Interactive Property Map or contact Shire Ranger Services before commencing works.

Important Dates 

Activity

Date

Firebreak compliance required by

3 November

Compliance must be maintained until

30 April

Shire property inspections commence

From 3 November

Property owners and occupiers are encouraged to complete required works well before the deadline to allow for contractor availability, weather conditions and unexpected delays.

Inspections and Compliance 

From 3 November, authorised Shire Rangers and officers may inspect properties throughout the district to assess compliance with the Bushfire Risk Compliance Notice.

Where a property does not meet the requirements of the Firebreak Compliance Notice, the Shire may take enforcement action under the Bush Fires Act 1954. Inspections also help identify and reduce bushfire risks before the peak fire season.

Depending on the circumstances, enforcement may include:

  • Issuing a Work Order requiring compliance within a specified timeframe.
  • Issuing an infringement for failing to comply.
  • The Shire may arrange for the required works to be completed by a contractor, with all associated costs recovered from the property owner.

The Shire's preference is always to achieve voluntary compliance. Property owners experiencing genuine difficulties meeting the requirements are encouraged to contact the Shire as early as possible to discuss their circumstances.

Frequently asked questions 

How do I know which requirements apply to my property?

Your property’s zoning determines the firebreak requirements. Refer to the current Firebreak Compliance Notice, use the Shire’s interactive Property Map, or contact the Shire if you are unsure.

Can I apply for a variation?

Yes. If you cannot meet the standard requirements because of site constraints, access limitations, natural features or other relevant circumstances, you may apply for a variation before the relevant deadline. A variation may allow firebreaks in alternative locations or another approved method of reducing fire hazards.

Early planning, such as spraying or clearing before peak growth, may help reduce the time and cost of maintaining firebreaks.

Variation requests must be submitted by the property owner, or a person authorised to act on the owner’s behalf. A separate request is required for each property.

What if I can't complete the works myself?

You may engage a contractor to complete the required works on your behalf. Responsibility for compliance remains with the property owner or occupier.

Add link to contractor list, if available.

Related Legislation and Resources 

  • Bush Fires Act 1954
  • Bushfire Regulations 1954
  • Current Firebreak Notice
  • Interactive Property Map
  • Firebreak Variation Application

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure about your property’s requirements or have questions about firebreak compliance, please contact Shire Ranger Services.

Phone: [9756 1018]

Email: [nannup@nannup.wa.gov.au]

The team can assist you to understand your obligations and prepare your property for bushfire season.