More than 50 properties have been deemed a fire hazard and their owners issued with fire prevention notices by Grant District Council.

Council officers have issued 54 Section 105F Notices, more than double the number issued last year.

Chief executive Darryl Whicker said council issued the notices to reduce the risks associated with bush or grass fires, with owners required to undertake necessary fire prevention work within 28 days.

“Council’s Fire Prevention Officers issue Section 105F Notices to ratepayers whose properties pose a fire risk, such as overgrown vegetation or other flammable materials like large woodpiles close to buildings,” he said.

“If you are issued with a notice then you are required to comply with the instructions so that together we can keep our communities safe.”

Environmental Services director Leith McEvoy said the issued notices had now expired and council officers were checking properties to confirm the required work has been completed.

“No expiations have been issued by council to date and council has been contacted by a number of property owners advising they have carried out the required works or are in the process of doing so which is a great outcome for the community,” he said.

“If you are unable to carry out the required works please contact council to discuss your situation as soon as possible. If works are not completed then that is a failure to comply under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 and council will appoint a contractor to complete the works and the associated cost will be the responsibility of the owner.”