During the season, people can collect firewood from within designated collection areas, with a limit of two cubic metres per day and a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.

“Designated collection areas are put in place to protect sites of cultural and environmental significance,” Forest Fire Management Victoria’s Brady Childs said.

“Also, some households rely on firewood for winter energy so consider others when taking wood.”

In red river gum parks, reserves and forests along the Murray River, collection will be restricted to residents of certain municipalities.

The felling of trees for wood is prohibited.  

Officers will patrol parks, forests and reserves to ensure collections comply with regulations.

Permission from local government is needed for the collection of firewood from roadsides under their management.

VicRoads does not currently allow firewood collection on roadsides it manages.

The season will close on June 30.

For more information, visit the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website or call 136 186.