NOTICE: Hefty fine or jail time for fire starters
Broekman said that this includes burning any waste material, leaves or grass in your own yard or dwelling.
LYDENBURG – The fire season is quickly approaching and dry conditions are now beginning to pose a fire danger. Fire Chief, Deon Broekman of Rapid Response, told the newspaper that they are now on high alert for any man-made combustions that might cause run-away fires.
“If we catch anyone making a fire without a proper license, we will act immediately. The person can and will be fined up to R5000 and could face jail time. This is a stern warning to all residents in and around Thaba Chweu Local Municipality (TCLM) to adhere to the set-out regulations. Those caught without the approved burning permit will be charged and prosecuted,” Broekman said.
Broekman said that this includes burning any waste material, leaves or grass in your own yard or dwelling.
According to the national Veld Fires act;
Any person who lights/uses or maintains a fire in the open air is guilty of a first category offence.
Any person who, in the open air leaves unattended a fire which he or she lit, used or maintained before that fire is extinguished; lights, uses or maintains a fire, whether with or without permission of the owner, which spreads and causes injury or damage;
Throws, puts down or drops a burning match or other burning material or any material capable of spontaneous combustion or self-ignition and, by doing so, makes a fire which spreads and causes injury or damage; lights, uses or maintains a fire in a road reserve other than in a fireplace which has been designated by a competent authority; or for a purpose other than the burning of a firebreak, smokes where smoking is by notice prohibited.
A fire permit can be applied for by completing the following link:
