FIREWOOD can be collected for personal use in state forests until June 30.
Domestic firewood supply in state forests is provided from fallen trees and forest management works.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s Amy Groch said people can collect up to two cubic metres per person, per day during a firewood collection season, with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.
Firewood collection is only allowed in designated firewood collection areas during a firewood season, and collection areas are restricted to residents of specific local shires.
Ms Groch urged collectors to play it safe and check local weather conditions as well as their planned route before heading into the forest, especially after recent flooding, storms and bushfires.
“When collecting, please drive only on formed roads, be aware of the environment around you and safety of yourself and others as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning,” Ms Groch said.
Ms Groch encouraged people who rely on firewood for heating and cooking to plan their needs early.
“Firewood collected during the collection seasons needs at least 8-12 months to cure and be dry before use,” she said.
It’s an offence to collect wood outside designated areas or to leave formed roads to collect or load.
“Most people do the right thing and stick to the collection limits, but people should know authorised officers will be patrolling to catch those who aren’t,” Ms Groch said.
Officers can issue fines of $769 to those caught breaking the rules, and serious offences have a maximum penalty of $9615 and/or one year in prison.
Report any suspected illegal firewood collection on 136 186.
