10/50 Vegetation Clearing Laws
Published Date: 19 Jun 2014
Summary
As you may be aware, the Rural Fires Amendment (Vegetation Clearing) Bill (AKA - 10/50 Vegetation Clearing) passed through the Upper House of Parliament yesterday.
Importantly, this does not mean the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing laws are now in place, however does allow the public exhibition of the 10/50 Code of Practice (Code) to commence. The Code will be on public exhibition for a period of 21 days and will be available on the NSW RFS public website early next week.
The 10/50 Code is the document that informs the community on the rules that apply to clearing vegetation under the new legislation. Clearing under the 10/50 Code is only allowed on parcels of land that are mapped as 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area. The RFS will host an on-line tool on the RFS website once the 10/50 Code is in force.
The 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area will be determined by the Commissioner.
A copy of the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice will be circulated shortly.
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Proposed 10/50 rule to improve bush fire protection
New laws are being finalised to help people living in bush fire prone areas better prepare their properties. These laws are not in operation yet.
If you live in a designated '10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement area', the proposed laws will allow you to:
*Clear trees on your property within 10 metres of a home, without seeking approval; and
*Clear underlying vegetation such as shrubs on your property within 50 metres of a home, without seeking approval.
Proposed 10/50 Rule
You will be able to search for your property online to find out if you live in a 10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement area once the laws come into force. The online search will also let you know of any restrictions such as the slope of your property or areas of cultural significance which need to be protected.
The laws, which have now passed NSW Parliament, are supported by a Code of Practice. This draft Code of Practice will shortly be released for public comment.
At the conclusion of this consultation period, the laws will be gazetted and come into effect. Until then, existing restrictions apply.
