Fire, smoke at East Lismore waste facility

Firefighters are investigating the cause of a large fire at the Lismore waste facility. Council said the site was evacuated.

Firefighters are responding to a waste facility fire in Lismore. Picture: Google view images

Firefighters rushed to the Lismore waste facility after reports of a large fire and smoke billowing from the site.

Authorities are not yet sure what started the fire but confirm it is not coming from any buildings, according to a Fire and Rescue NSW spokeswoman.

The fire was mostly under control as of 12.40pm.

Lismore City Council said the fire was in the steel and construction area at the waste facility in a statement.

“The facility has been evacuated and will remain closed until further notice. There were no injuries,” the statement reads.

“Both the Environment Protection Authority and Work Safe NSW have been advised.”

Haze in the air following the fire at the East Lismore waste facility. Picture: Cath Plitz

It is understood the approximately 18 staff members are standing at their evacuation space opposite the facility, with some wearing masks due to the smell.

The fire started about 11.35am and currently one Rural Fire Service crew and four Fire and Rescue NSW crews are on scene.

The fire is causing large clouds of black smoke, with some residents reporting seeing flames from Wyrallah Rd.

Council encourages people with heart and respiratory conditions in the area to take caution, with air pollution levels in the area affected.