CFS Codes of Practice

The CFS, in conjunction with Grain Producers SA, Primary Producers SA and the State Government has developed new Codes of Practice for Broad Acre and Vegetation Pile Burning as well as for the use of Prescribed Tools.

The Codes take into account lessons learned from recent out-of-season bushfires. They are designed as a guide to the South Australian farming community. They cover:

safe out-of-fire season land management practices
safe use of friction cutting tools and welders which may be an ignition source for fire at any time of the year.

All of these Codes of Practice are under review.

Apiary (Bee Keeping) Fire Safety - CFS Code of Practice - Draft (pending Approval)

Although this Code is yet to be approved it still provides readers with information to help identify the responsibilities for the Apiarist (Bee Keeper) regarding fire safety during the Fire Danger Season within South Australia.

Broad Acre Burning - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved April 2015)

Broad acre stubble burning is a farm management practice that produces the greatest fire risk every summer and autumn if not carefully planned and implemented with caution. This Code of Practice serves as guide to the South Australian farming community to help in the practice of safe broad acre stubble burning.

Comfort fires - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved February 2016)

This Code applies to any person using a fire for personal comfort or cooking, such as a campfire, fire pit or other devices that burn solid fuel such as wood and charcoal etc. Although this Code is currently under review the contents of the document provides valid and useful safety advice. This code applies across the entire state.

Grain Harvesting - CFS Code of Practice

This Code of Practice applies to all grain harvesting and grain handling operations that occur "in the paddock", including operation of grain harvesters, operation of vehicles involved in transporting grain, grain dryers and grain augers. The Grain Harvesting Code of Practice applies to harvesting any flammable crop.

Mowing and Slashing - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved May 2016)

This Code has been developed to address safety risks associated with the undertaking of this activity during the Fire Danger Season. This Code only applies to the use of mowers and slashers and does not cover harvesting operations as these activities are covered by other Codes of Practice. Although this Code is currently under review the contents of the document are still applicable and provide useful safety advice on how and when to undertake this activity.

Use of metal cutting tools and welders - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved April 2015)

The use of metal cutting tools and welders is a common practice in both the urban and rural environments. The use of these tools has been the source of ignition for numerous fires. The main cause of these fires has been from a lack of planning and preparation and inappropriate use of these tools and welders in and around flammable vegetation and other material.

Vegetation Pile Burning - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved April 2015)

The practice of vegetation pile burning has been undertaken for many years and is an effective way to dispose of accumulated vegetation waste in the rural setting. Over the years the practice of vegetation pile burning has led to the start of numerous fires. The main cause of uncontrolled fires from vegetation pile burning has been from a lack of planning, preparation and inappropriate burning techniques for the environment in which it is conducted.

Wood Fired Pizza Ovens - CFS Code of Practice - Current (approved April 2010)

Under Section 79 of the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 and Regulation 34, gas and electric BBQ operation during the Fire Danger Season is permitted with certain restrictions. The use and operation of wood or solid-fuel burning cooking devices is covered under Regulation 32A. The conditions outlined in Regulation 32A do not address issues associated with the installation and operation of wood fired pizza ovens in the domestic or commercial catering environment. This Code has been developed in consultation with distributors/retailers of wood fired pizza ovens in an effort to establish standards for the installation (location) and safe operation of such items during the Fire Danger Season.