Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has welcomed new laws which allow residents in designated areas within the Tamworth electorate to protect their homes from bushfires.
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New laws have been introduced to allow the clearance of trees and vegetation from around the home.
Mr Anderson said the NSW government was committed to removing regulatory obstacles for home owners to allow them to adequately prepare their home ahead of the 2014-15 bushfire season.
“The new laws allow people in the designated areas to clear trees within 10 metres of their home, and clear vegetation other than trees within 50 metres of their home, provided they comply with the RFS Code of Practice,” Mr Anderson said.
“Removing the need for assessment or approval will empower home owners to minimise fuel loads around their home in an environmentally responsible way.
“A well-prepared property, along with a completed Bush Fire Survival Plan, can minimise the risk of loss of life and property.”
The NSW RFS has an online tool available on its website where people can check if they are in a designated 10/50 vegetation entitlement clearing area. People can enter their address or lot number into the online tool to see if the new arrangements apply to them.
Copies of the Code of Practice can be obtained from the RFS or downloaded from www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
Mr Anderson has also welcomed the introduction of higher penalties for 18 fire-related offences.
“The new laws and increased fines have come ahead of what could be a challenging season,” Mr Anderson said.
“Remember the fire season is fast approaching and it is important to prepare your property to protect it as best as possible,” he said.