Shaun Whiley, 32, appeared before the Queanbeyan Local Court following his arrest at around 10.40pm on Thursday night.

Emergency services were called to Lochiel Street just before 9pm following reports of the small fire.

Whiley was alleged to have walked into long grass and set it alight.

He then left the scene and was followed by a witness.

Police were alerted and stopped the man nearby before taking him to the Queanbeyan Police Station.

It is alleged the police found a cigarette lighter on him.

Whiley was charged with intentionally causing fire and being reckless to its spread, as well as setting fire to property.

In court on Friday morning, he did not enter a plea.

He is due to face court again on March 31.