Tuesday, March 31 marked the official end to the most devastating bush fire season in the state's history according to NSW Rural Fire Service (NSWRFS).
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From 1 April, fire permits will no longer be required for the Cootamundra-Gundagai LGAs.
"Even though a fire permit is no longer a requirement, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority 24 hours before burning," NSWRFS South West Slopes managing director Superintendent Andrew Dillon said.
"People should also check that they have sufficient equipment to control and contain the fire to their property.
"Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if not managed correctly.
Mr Dillon said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush fire now that the danger period is officially over.
NSWRFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said this season had been unprecedented in terms of conditions, the loss of lives and property, and the threat to communities across NSW.
"NSWRFS crews and other agencies have responded to more than 11,400 bush and grass fires that have burnt more than 5.5 million hectares," Mr Fitzsimmons said. "Fires this season have destroyed 2,448 homes; however, the great work of firefighters saw 14,481 homes saved."
Mr Fitzsimmons said that most tragically 25 lives were lost, including those of the three NSWRFS volunteers and three US aerial firefighters.
"Our thoughts will forever be with the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives."
Mr Fitzsimmons stressed that all emergency services personnel, especially NSWRFS members, have given so much, spending time away from their families, jobs and loved ones.
Mr Dillon said 51 brigades from across the zone sent tankers and firefighters to assist with the Dunns Rd fire.
"We also had a large number of firefighters travel further afield. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of all South West Slopes Zone NSW RFS members and other local supporting crews who travelled out of area to assist with fires. Almost every brigade had members undertake deployments.
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