Generally, removing firewood from national parks is prohibited. However, firewood collection is allowed in state forests, and under permit where designated in the Riverina. To collect firewood, you must obtain a permit that remains valid when collecting and transporting firewood.
Tree-felling is prohibited. Firewood cannot be collected for sale or commercial use.
Domestic firewood collection program
Firewood collection areas
Areas selected for firewood collection depend on:
- the presence of sufficient wood to allow removal while maintaining ecological processes and cultural heritage values
- adequate public access and safety
- amenity for other forest users
- other regulatory requirements.
The areas may be revised from time to time in response to changing circumstances such as flooding and depletion of coarse woody debris.
Energy efficiency and home heating alternatives
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has also adopted the taskforce recommendation to encourage alternative forms of heating and to provide information about energy efficiency.
Permits to collect firewood
There are 4 different types of public lands in the Riverina with firewood collection policies.
Each area is managed by a different agency and requires a specific permit that only allows firewood collection under certain conditions.
State forests
Firewood collection in state forests:
- is permitted throughout the year
- is allowed for 10 days from the nominated start date of a permit
- allows up to 6 tonnes per household each year.
To get a permit, visit the Forestry Corporation firewood site.
National parks and regional parks
Firewood collection permits are available to permanent NSW residents within the Riverina Bioregion and Balranald Shire for up to 6 tonnes per household per year.
Collection is permitted in select areas of Murray Valley National Park, Murrumbidgee Valley National Park and Yanga National Park between 1 April to 30 September. For more information or to apply for a permit, visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Roadsides
Some firewood collection is allowed from roadsides in the Riverina.
To get a permit, permission is required from either Transport for NSW or the relevant local council.
Travelling stock routes
Firewood collection is generally not allowed on travelling stock reserves.
For more information, contact Riverina or Murray Local Land Services.