Permits are now required to light an open fire following Southlands move today (26 January) to a restricted fire season.

There is also been a ban imposed on using solid fuel and charcoal barbeques at Sandy Point from the Dunns Road Bridge over the Oreti River including Sandy Point Reserve, Fosbender Park and private land through to Foveaux Street (north end of Oki street).

However gas barbecues are allowed as it is considered they pose a lower fire risk.

Southland District Manager, Julian Tohiariki said the current conditions are the reason for the change.

"A wet spring-early summer means there is plenty of available fuel for fire around Southland," he said.

"Recent cooler conditions have eased fire dangers, but fuels remain dry and a fire could easily start and spread."

Tohiariki said care should also be taken with anything that may cause a spark.

"This includes recreational vehicles such as motorbikes. Hot exhausts touching dry grass could be just enough to start a fire," he said.

"Even if you have a permit, we expect anyone planning on lighting a fire to check the conditions. If it’s hot and windy, please hold off lighting a fire," he said.

When lighting a fire there are a few things you can do to keep safe and prevent it from getting out of control.

"Ensure vegetation is at least 30 meters away and on the downwind side of any hedges, trees, fences, buildings or other combustible material. The greater the distance the safer the burn," said Tohiariki.

"Check the forecast and make sure there are no strong winds forecast for the next two days. Wind is one of the biggest factors we see with out of control fires in Southland, often fanning fires back into life days or weeks after they have been put out."

"Keep checking on their fires even once they’re out. Go back and make sure your burn pile is cold. Rake out the fire, wet it down and ensure all material is cold to touch. This will prevent the fire from reigniting," he said

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For more information on how to stay safe when lighting fires, go to checkitsalright.nz.