A 1m by 1m burn off at a Tyntynder South property was reported by a passing motorist last weekend.

Swan Hill CFA's Captain Dennis Turner said the owner had the spot fire out before authorities arrived.

Mr Turner said it was a reminder that a burn off of any size is illegal and subject to police investigation.

"Any fire starts with a small fire," he said.

"People need to realise a burn off is a burn off; even if it's just a small pile of grass or sticks, it doesn't matter.

"If conditions aren't right, you shouldn't be burning."

Mr Turner said those wishing to burn off before the end of fire restrictions, usually about mid-March, should seek a permit from CFA district headquarters to do so.

"It does suck up a lot of our volunteers' time to look at these things," he said.

"People either have to wait until fire restrictions are finished, which should be mid-march, or go to CFA and get a permit."

For more information call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667