For residents in Cockburn, burning garden waste is prohibited unless you live in a rural zone.
You can light a fire, such as a wood fire pit, heat beads, or use a wood fire pizza oven for cooking purposes only, although you must ensure the fire does not cause excessive smoke, irritation or annoyance to others. These appliances are not to be used during total fire ban periods or on days with a high fire danger rating or above. Gas BBQ's can be used at any time of the year.
For safety, always supervise a fire while cooking. Once your food is ready, be sure to extinguish the flames.
​Visit Emergency WA to check the current total fire bans and fire danger ratings.
To protect air quality and public health, back yard burning is prohibited in non-rural areas. Backyard fires can generate excessive smoke. Infringements may be issued for illegal burning.
Alternative options
Some alternatives to backyard burning include:
The City’s Fire Control Order details fire mitigation works required during specific periods of the year. Property owners and occupiers must comply with the Fire Control Order as stated in the Bush Fire Act 1954. Property owners and occupiers may receive penalties or fines for not complying with the Fire Control Order.
The Fire Control Order is also available in Chinese, Portuguese, Italian and Croatian languages.
More information and contact
Please contact the City's Fire and Emergency Management team for more information on 08 9411 3444 or at [email protected].