Tasmania Begins Seasonal Campfire Bans Across 20 Municipalities as Fire Risk Rises

Seasonal campfire restrictions took effect in national parks and reserves across 20 municipalities in the Australian state of Tasmania at 2 a.m. local time on Monday, 26 October 2026, as authorities sought to reduce the risk of human-caused bushfires ahead of warmer weather.

The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service says the restrictions apply to reserved land in parts of the state's south, east and north. Affected municipalities include Hobart, Launceston, Clarence, Brighton, Break O'Day, Central Highlands, Kingborough, Huon Valley and Glamorgan-Spring Bay, which includes Maria Island. The list also covers Latrobe and other districts; the ban does not apply uniformly to every part of Tasmania.

Under the seasonal restrictions, visitors must not use campfires, pot fires or other solid-fuel stoves in affected areas. Gas stoves and gas barbecues remain permitted under the seasonal ban. Separate total fire bans may impose stricter conditions, so visitors should check the rules for their particular park or campsite before travelling.

The Parks and Wildlife Service cited dry conditions in much of eastern Tasmania and forecasts of warmer-than-average weather in the coming months. It said seasonal restrictions are intended to prevent unattended or improperly extinguished fires from spreading into surrounding vegetation.

According to figures reported by Pulse Tasmania from the service, rangers recorded 245 illegal campfires in parks and reserves over the previous year, including 42 found unattended and still burning. Rangers are expected to patrol popular visitor sites and campgrounds during the warmer months.

The restrictions were announced on 23 October and began on 26 October; they are not a new announcement made in the past hour. The Parks and Wildlife Service maintains an interactive map and current guidance so travellers can check local rules, including any separate total fire bans.