Auckland fire authorities are urging people to ask if it's alright, before they light.

The restricted fire season begins today ahead of what's expected to be a dry, windy El Nino summer.

Principal rural fire officer Bryan Cartelle said people in other rural areas need to get a permit before they light a fire.

"Fire permits are free of charge, and we'll come out there and provide some advice about how and when someone should burn."

Permits are required for all open air fires, including cooking and heating fires.

Meanwhile, a total fire ban takes effect today on the islands of Auckland's Hauraki Gulf.

Outdoor fires and fireworks are banned, but there are some exceptions for barbeques.

Bryan Cartelle said the fire ban is the most effective way to prevent fires in isolated areas.

"Given the isolation and values at risk for the gulf islands, it's a good way of managing those ad-hoc fires."

What you need to know

Mandatory permits will be required for all outdoor fires in the rural areas of mainland Auckland

Free permits and free and professional advice is available from Auckland Council on 09 301 0101 or www.aucklandcouncil/ruralfire.govt.nz

Residents should report suspicious fires immediately by calling the fire service on 111

A total fire ban takes effect on Hauraki Gulf islands

Exceptions to the Hauraki Gulf fire ban

Small cooking fires that are enclosed in an outdoor fire device that contain all sparks and embers on private property fire

Using a device fuelled with gas, or containing all embers and sparks in a public place and small cooking fires contained in an outdoor fire device fuelled by gas