New laws governing property protection in bushfire-prone areas have been passed in both Houses of Parliament, giving residents in these areas additional powers to protect their homes.

The sensible laws allow residents to more easily clear trees and vegetation from around their property.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Stuart Ayres said the new laws allow homeowners to take the required precautions to protect their property in case of a bushfire.

The introduction of the new laws follows the devastating impact of bushfire observed last summer. Residents, whose homes are located in designated areas close to bushland, can now clear trees and vegetation from their property without the usual red tape hassles.

According to Mr Ayres, people with homes in a bushfire zone will be able to clear trees within 10 metres of their house. The designated bushfire zone areas will be determined by the Rural Fire Service. Homeowners will also be able to clear shrubs and other vegetation, except for trees, within 50 metres of their house.

Minister for Planning Pru Goward said the new rules will also apply to high-risk facilities such as schools, childcare centres and hospitals in designated zones.

Blue Mountains MP Roza Sage commented that residents should be given every reasonable opportunity to protect their homes and families against devastating bushfires.