FOREST managers are reminding people they can only take firewood from designated areas when the autumn collection period begins on Sunday.
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Only people living in the Loddon, Campaspe, Swan Hill and Gannawarra shire areas will be able to collect wood from Cohuna's designated area.
Forest Fire Victoria will take a zero-tolerance approach to illegal firewood collection, chief conservation regulator Kate Gavens said.
"Most people follow the rules, however it's important for anyone collecting firewood on public land to be aware of where, when and what firewood can be collected to avoid significant penalties", she said.
Under the Forest Act 1958, people who collect firewood outside designated collection areas or season or take more than the maximum allowable amounts can face fines of up to $8,261, or a maximum penalty of one-year imprisonment or both, if the matter proceeded to Court.
People can take a maximum of two cubic metres of wood a day and 16 cubic metres a financial year.
The felling of trees and cutting downed hollow logs for firewood will remain prohibited.
For more information on designated collection areas click here.
