Firewood collection

How to collect your firewood and keep warm this winter while still protecting our environment.

Firewood is a limited resource and it is becoming harder for individuals and families to find wood to burn for the purpose of heating our homes. 

Firewood often comes from native trees that are 150+ years old that have either fallen over or from the limbs that they have dropped. Non-native trees and plantations are also good sources of firewood.

It is important to remember that native vegetation is protected in Victoria. 

Please check with your local government authority prior to the removal of any standing trees.

Fallen timber provides important habitat for wildlife and its removal results in a loss of biodiversity. See 'The ground storey'(PDF, 6MB) for more information.

So, how do I source firewood?

Collect Firewood yourself

• There are rules for the collection of firewood.
• Firewood can only be collected from public land in specific areas.
• Collection from roadsides is not permitted. 
• Avoid the collection of timber that has hollows.
• Only collect what you need.
• Leave plenty of timber scattered around for wildlife.
• Minimise disturbance by driving along existing tracks and avoiding undisturbed areas. 

Create a Firewood Plantation by planting trees on your property that you intend to harvest for firewood

Purchase wood from a reputable supplier

• Check whether the timber was sourced in a legal manner and from a sustainable source.
• The commercial supplier should be certified under the Voluntary Code of Practice for Firewood merchants.
• Ask for a copy of their Forest Produce Licence

Collect firewood on private land with agreement of the landholder

Removal of any trees from private land is subject to permit and regulation requirements from council.

You may know someone who is legally removing trees or has fallen timber on their property that they would like removed. Ensure that consent has been given by the local authority prior to the removal of any native vegetation (including dead and planted).

You can improve how you warm yourself in winter by:

• Replacing your wood heater or open fireplaces with an alternative heating system.
• Heat your home more efficiently
• Dress appropriately or grab a blanket.

Useful hints for using your wood heater

When used incorrectly, wood burning heaters emit more pollutants and use fuel inefficiently. The EPA and Home Heating Association have some great information on how to get your fire burning at home safely and efficiently.