Lighting an outdoor fire

If you want to light an outdoor fire, check if you need a fire permit.

Fire Season Alerts

From 26 January, 2022, the Wellington Rural Fire District moved to a Restricted Fire Season. The fire danger has been lifted to high.

A restricted fire season means anyone planning on lighting an open-air fire will need a permit.

Check out the Fire and Emergency NZ website or Facebook page for more information.


Applying for a fire permit

To light an outdoor fire on private property, you may need a fire permit.  Fires are not permitted in public places in Porirua.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand issues fire permits in Porirua.

To find out more and apply for a permit, please check the Check Its Alright website or phone 0800 658 628.


Letting off fireworks

Most people enjoy letting off fireworks, but you need to follow a few rules to make sure everyone stays safe around fireworks.


Organised fireworks displays

Permission to stage larger pyrotechnic displays is the responsibility of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). The detail on the size, process and requirements for seeking a permit can be found on their website www.fireandemergency.nz

If a fireworks display is being held on Council land, the organizer would also need approval from the Council to use the land prior to seeking permission from Fire and Emergency New Zealand.


Don't let off fireworks at the beach or in any of our parks or reserves.


If you're letting off fireworks in your backyard, remember these safety tips:

  • Have a bucket of water or a hose ready.
  • Use a torch to read the instructions on the fireworks before letting any off.
  • Only let adults light fireworks.
  • Aim fireworks only at the sky, and never at people, buildings or anything that could be set alight.
  • If a firework doesn't go off, never try to relight it.
  • Put your pets inside to keep them safe.