The NSW Government and NSW Rural Fire Service is inviting public feedback on a draft Code of Practice for the new 10/50 laws giving residents in designated bushfire areas additional powers to protect their homes.
Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea said the law will allow homeowners in designated areas to clear trees on their land within ten metres of their home, and thin other vegetation within 50 metres of their home.
“With the consultation period beginning, it provides the community with a great opportunity to provide feedback ahead of the bushfire season,” Mr O’Dea said.
“The designated bushfire zone areas – each known as a ‘10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement area’ – will be determined by the Rural Fire Service.
“This Government is proactively addressing real risks from bushfire and is cutting red tape for residents whose homes are located in designated areas close to bushland.
The laws are expected to be in place before the coming bush fire season but are not yet in force.
“Until the laws are formalised, following the consultation period, existing rules and penalties apply,” Mr O’Dea stated.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the new rules will empower landowners to minimise fuel loads near their homes.
“It is important that when these laws come into effect in the near future that people understand their obligations,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“The Code of Practice will outline these responsibilities and now is the opportunity for all of the community to have a say on the draft Code.”
The consultation period closes 21 July.
The draft Code of Practice is available on the NSW Rural Fire Service website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
