Firewood can only be taken from designated collection areas in state forests or parks during approved collection seasons and is for personal use only and cannot be sold.
The closest firewood collection area to Kyabram and district is Alfs Dam near Rushworth.
Collection limits include taking a maximum of two cubic metres per person per day and a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.
State Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp said firewood could be collected up until June 30.
“Some households in regional areas rely on firewood for winter energy. With a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year, I encourage everyone to consider others when deciding how much firewood to collect,” he said.
“Please protect our native flora and fauna and respect cultural heritage sites by only collecting approved firewood from designated areas.”
It is illegal to collect firewood from within 20 metres of any rivers, creeks, lakes or dams.
Furthermore, hollow logs and dead trees provide critical habitat for a wide variety of native species — therefore the felling of trees and cutting of hollow logs for firewood is also prohibited.
Under the Forest Act 1958, people who collect firewood outside designated collection areas or season or take more than the maximum allowable amounts can face fines of up to $8,261, or a maximum penalty of one-year imprisonment or both, if the matter goes to court.
Firewood collection from roadsides is managed by local government agencies and often requires a permit. Residents are encouraged to contact their local councils directly for further details.
Further information, including access to interactive online maps, is available at: ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood
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