Smoke & Fumes

Council’s Local Laws prohibit fires that are:

  • within 100m of neighbouring property unless for cooking purposes; and
  • where it is likely to cause a smoke nuisance; and
  • where it could pose a risk of damage or destruction to property.

This includes burning garden waste or other rubbish in an incinerator, on vacant land or on roads.

A Rural Fire Services (RFS) permit to light a fire is required when the size of the fire exceeds two metres in any direction, that is, 2m high at the height of the fire or 2m long or wide (Nuisance provisions in the Environmental Protection Act 1994 can also be used to regulate the impacts of smoke from fires).

For information about restrictions and permits, phone Queensland Fire and Rescue Service on 1300 369 003 or got to the QFRS website.

When investigating complaints about smoke and fumes, Council considers:

  • The amount of smoke or fumes being emitted;
  • How long the smoke or fumes is emitted for, and the smoke’s or fumes characteristics and qualities;
  • The sensitivity of the environment into which the smoke or fumes is being emitted and the impact that it has had or may have; and
  • The number of complaints received and the views of nearby residents

Particles

When investigating a particle complaint, Council considers the:

  • Amount of particle being emitted;
  • Duration and rate of emission and the particle characteristics and qualities;
  • Sensitivity of the environment into which the particles is being emitted and the impact that it has had or may have; and
  • The number of complaints received and the views of nearby residents

Ways you can reduce air-borne particles include:

  • Consider weather conditions before starting jobs such as spray painting and chemical spraying;
  • Use accurate spraying equipment;
  • Erect a physical barrier such as sheets or Hessian; and
  • Consider an alternative location such as a commercial spray booth.