The Fire Service in Hurunui District says some landholders have been illegally burning in Department of Conservation controlled areas in Canterbury.
The district's principal rural fire officer, Allan Grigg, says the Fire Service has responded to at least four blazes this month within the 1km fire safety margin around DoC areas.
He says a special permit is needed for lighting fires in these zones.
Mr Grigg says it is unlikely that farmers can claim insurance on an illegal burn if they have to pay for firefighters to put out the fire.
