The potential for "significant fires" has led the Southern Rural Fire Authority to declare a restricted fire season for the entire southern district.
Southern Rural Fire Authority Principal Rural Fire Officer Mike Grant said vegetation moisture levels had dropped to the point that larger fires were more likely.
"Even though we are getting little bits of moisture, it's not a lot and the vegetation is drying quicker than the rain is being received," Mr Grant said.
A restricted fire season meant a permit had to be gained to light an open fire.
Permits do not need to be gained for campfires, barbecues, incinerators, offal holes and hedge trimmings, but those did have specific conditions, including never lighting them when it is windy and not being within 30m of a building, trees, hedges or material that could catch fire.
Mr Grant said those who lit fires in the open were responsible for ensuring the fires were safe and did not spread and should remain aware and considerate of smoke drift across roads and into neighbouring properties.
"Even if you light a fire with a permit, or in an incinerator or a barbecue, it's still your responsibility if it escapes and damages property or has to be put out by the fire service or rural fire crew.
"If the fire has to be extinguished by the fire service or rural fire crew, you will be charged."
Fires should never be lit when conditions were windy, or when strong winds were forecast, he said.
The Southern Rural Fire Authority staff issue permits, but it could take up to five days to check the applications, particularly if a site inspection was required, so Mr Grant urged people to think ahead if they were planning to burn off.
"With Christmas coming up, it is even more vital to plan ahead, as no permits will be issued over the holiday period."
