CFS urges preparedness as early start to Fire Danger Season declared
Thursday, 1 October 2026
SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has confirmed start dates for the 2026-27 Fire Danger Season across several of the state’s 15 Fire Ban Districts, including early starts in 3 districts.
With increased bushfire risk expected in the northern parts of South Australia due to elevated fuel loads and curing, the Fire Danger Season will start on 15 October in the Flinders, North East Pastoral and North West Pastoral districts.
Eastern Eyre and West Coast districts will also start on 15 October in line with the 2025-26 Fire Danger Season, followed by Lower Eyre Peninsula on 15 November.
CFS Director Community Risk and Resilience Alison May said the early start was an important reminder to all South Australians to ensure their families, homes, and properties are prepared for the season ahead.
“The threat of bushfire is not exclusive to the northern parts of the state. Now is the time for all South Australians to ensure they have completed and reviewed their Bushfire Survival Plan with their loved ones,” Ms May said.
“As harvest is also underway or about to begin across much of the state, I urge all farmers, property owners, and their families to review the Grain Harvesting Code of Practice, remain vigilant and have a plan in place considering all members of the family.
“The CFS and our volunteer firefighters stand ready to protect their communities, but preparedness and supporting community safety is the responsibility of all South Australians."
A permit is required for most burning activities during the Fire Danger Season or on days where a Total Fire Ban is declared. Permits may be issued under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 by an authorised officer of a local council.
Dates for the remaining districts will be announced in the coming weeks following further local consultation.
For more information on restrictions during the Fire Danger Season, how to prepare your home and property for the bushfire season, and how to develop a Bushfire Survival Plan, visit the CFS website at cfs.sa.gov.au.
2026-27 Fire Danger Season dates
Adelaide Metropolitan Area: TBC
Eastern Eyre: 15 October 2026 - 15 April 2027
Flinders: 15 October 2026 - 15 April 2027
Kangaroo Island: TBC
Lower Eyre Peninsula: 15 November 2026 - 15 April 2027
Lower South East: TBC
Mid North: TBC
Mount Lofty Ranges: TBC
Murraylands: TBC
North East Pastoral: 15 October 2026 - 15 April 2027
North West Pastoral: 15 October 2026 - 15 April 2027
Riverland: TBC
Upper South East: TBC
West Coast: 15 October 2026 - 15 April 2027
Yorke Peninsula: TBC.
