Dunedin's long hot summer has led to a total fire ban being declared throughout the city.
A prohibited fire season will be imposed on the Dunedin City Council area from 6am tomorrow until further notice.
All fire permits are now suspended and no permits will be accepted until the ban is lifted.
''We never make the [total fire ban] decision lightly, but it's got to the point that we have to manage the situation carefully,'' council principal rural fire officer Graeme Still said yesterday.
''I think last time we had a ban this late in the year was about eight years ago. Our summer came a bit later this year and it has been a beauty. Since February, it has been fairly consistently drying off,'' he said.
He said the water table was down and ''we're hoping rain is on the horizon''.
''We need about 25mm to 40mm of rain before people can burn again with confidence.
''There's a lot of fuel around at the moment that has dried up and it wouldn't take much.''
He warned a fire in current conditions would spread rapidly.
The ban covers the lighting of all outdoor fires, including charcoal and wood-fired barbecues, braziers, incinerators, camp fires and thermettes. Gas barbecues and cookers may be used but should be kept clear of combustible materials.
People should also be careful when using vehicles off-road, petrol chainsaws and mowers, and disposing of cigarette butts, Mr Still said.
''Anybody seeing a fire outdoors during the ban is asked to call 111 immediately to report it.''
Fire restrictions are also in place elsewhere in Otago. Central Otago and the Waitaki district both have fire bans, and there is a restricted fire season in the Clutha district. However, Clutha is likely to impose a total fire ban this week.
