First of all: Please make sure to always follow local rules and regulations. This blog post is not official advice. You’ll find links to all the Fire Departments of all States and Territories below.
Can I use my STOV BBQ during periods of total fire bans in NSW?
According to the latest information from the NSW Fire Department website (Nov 2023), you are allowed to use a gas-powered barbecue on days and periods with total fire bans if you follow specific guidelines.
Please note, that you are not allowed to use your STOV BBQ with solid fuel such as wood kindlings and charcoal. Read on for more information about total fire ban days and what it means for a gas or electric barbecue.
It is a hot summer total fire ban day, and you want to BBQ? Are you allowed to?
This might depend on your type of BBQ or better what type of fuel your BBQ uses. BBQs, pizza ovens, or firepits that run on solid fuel such as wood, pellets, or charcoal are not allowed during total fire bans. Barbecues that run on electricity or gas barbecues are allowed to be used under certain conditions. When you are out and about check the fire danger rating and see if there is a fire ban in place in your local area. Please make sure to follow these total fire ban rules, have your fire extinguisher ready, or any other fire suppression equipment. Always find yourself a spot that helps the BBQ to stand stable and any flammable material is far away (some regulations mention 3m at least).
Can I use a gas BBQ during total fire bans in NSW?
According to the NSW Rural Fire Service, you can use a gas barbeque under the following conditions:
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“It is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating;
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No combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating;
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You have an immediate and continuous supply of water; and
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The barbeque is within 20 metres of a permanent private dwelling such as a home; or
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The barbeque is within a designated picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest.”
So as long as you follow these guidelines, you will be able to enjoy a BBQ session with friends and family during these hot summer months.
Is it legal to use an electric barbecue during total fire bans in NSW?
Here is what the NSW Rural Fire Service tells us on their website:
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"You can use an electric barbeque for cooking as long as it is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating, and no combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating."
Am I allowed to use my pizza oven on days of total fire bans?
We understand a tasty pizza for the family can be amazing on hot summer days but please check if you are allowed to use your pizza oven. Some pizza ovens run on solid fuel (e.g. a pure wood fire pizza oven) and these will not be permitted. Some pizza ovens run on gas so the same rules apply to them that apply to gas or electric barbecues.
Here is what the NSW Rural Fire Service says about wood-fire pizza ovens during a total fire ban:
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"No. A barbeque or wood fire pizza oven which uses solid fuel, such as wood, charcoal or heat beads, cannot be used outside during a Total Fire Ban."
Where do I find out more information about the total fire ban BBQ in my area?
Here is a list of each of the departments in each Australian State or Territory:
South Australian Country Fire Service
Please make sure to always follow the official local rules and regulations.
Keep safe and happy BBQing from STOV!