The sanction also includes the Far North Coast, North Coast, Greater Sydney Region, Illawarra/Shoalhaven, Central Ranges, New England and Northern Slopes regions on November 15.

It's due to forecast hot and windy conditions.

The Total Fire Ban covers the following councils:

Greater Hunter (severe) - Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Singleton, Upper Hunter

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) provides the following advice:

Under severe fire conditions -

* Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety during a fire

* Follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan and remain vigilant

* Keep informed by listening to local radio, watching television news broadcasts and monitoring www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

"We may issue a Harvest Safety Alert for areas of heightened risk," a NSW RFS spokesperson said.

"Harvest operators should monitor conditions and regularly check that they are operating within guidelines.

"No fires can be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended.

"Gas and electric barbeques may be used provided certain conditions are met."

Total Fire Ban rules and a map of current areas are listed at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au