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Fetching the latest fire danger and ban data.
Fetching the latest fire danger and ban data.
Queensland's fire risk is managed locally by the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) and, within parks, by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS). Most restrictions come from 'Local Fire Bans' in specific council areas. A critical nuance is that QPWS can impose park-specific fire prohibitions independently of state bans — and uniquely, heat beads may be permitted during these park prohibitions.
Common activities and their restrictions.
Gas & Electric BBQs
Almost always exempt during a Local Fire Ban. Must be attended by a responsible adult with adequate clearance.
QPWS "Specified Cooking Appliances" (Park Fire Prohibition)
During a QPWS park prohibition, gas appliances and heat beads are permitted — provided the appliance stands at least 20cm off the ground and is fully self-contained to prevent ember escape. This is a rare instance where heat beads are allowed during a fire prohibition.
Small Fires Under 2m (Outside of Ban Only)
When NO fire ban is active, fires up to 2m in all directions may be lit without a permit in rural zones, provided no local government restrictions apply. Prohibited during any declared fire ban.
Local Fire Bans
Imposed by the QFD Commissioner for specific Local Government Areas (LGAs). These are localised — always check your specific location. Gas BBQs are generally more relaxed during local bans than in southern states.
QPWS Park Fire Prohibitions
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) can impose a "Fire Prohibition" within a specific park or forest even if the surrounding region is NOT under a QFD fire ban. Campfires are banned during a QPWS prohibition.
Large Fires (> 2m) — Permit Required
Any fire larger than 2 metres in any dimension requires a "Permit to Light Fire" from a Fire Warden. Queensland is very permit-focused.
Green Waste Burning (Urban)
Most major councils (including Brisbane and Cairns) strictly prohibit burning garden waste in residential backyards. In rural zones, larger fires require a "Permit to Light Fire" from a Fire Warden.
All Fires During Local Fire Ban (Solid Fuel)
Wood and solid fuel fires are prohibited during a declared Local Fire Ban. Only gas appliances are permitted.
Campfires in Parks (QPWS Prohibition)
Campfires are completely banned when a QPWS Fire Prohibition is in effect, even if gas/heat bead appliances are still permitted.
All Fires During State of Fire Emergency
During a declared State of Fire Emergency (rare but severe), restrictions are total. The QFD Commissioner has absolute authority — all fires, all appliances, and all permits are suspended.
Lighting Fires Without Permit (>2m)
Any fire larger than 2m in any dimension without a permit is illegal at any time.
This page is a summary guide and not legal advice. Always check official Queensland government sources for real-time warnings.