Alleged Brisbane firebug faces court after being caught on hidden camera

Police have allegedly captured a man on a hidden camera they say is responsible for multiple fires at two inner-city Brisbane properties in the past weeks.

Peter Leslie Willams, 49, fronted Brisbane Magistrates this morning after being arrested near the scene of the most recent fire in Hamilton yesterday.

Police allege Mr Williams started fires at the unoccupied property on May 30 and June 15, and also at a neighbouring property on June 1.

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Both heritage-listed properties are owned by the same person who is currently based in Melbourne.

Police said Mr Williams was first spotted on CCTV following the fire that took place on May 30, riding a pushbike in the Hamilton area.

He was then spotted a second time on CCTV in the area on June 1, where he was seen allegedly watching the home before it became well alit.

The two fires prompted police to install a hidden camera on the property with the owner's permission.

Police prosecutor Sargent Mark Hughes claimed the hidden captured Mr Williams at the property moments before yesterday's fire.

Sargent Hughes also alleged a lighter, shirt and cap were found in Mr Williams backpack when he was arrested.

Mr Williams told police he had been shopping in the area.

The court was told Mr Williams was on bail and was serving community service at the time of the alleged incident and he had no history of arson.

Mr Williams' lawyer Elliot Boddice made a bail application.

The Legal Aid lawyer said his client suffered from mental health issues and was the carer for his partner.

He also cited his client's good history with complying to bail conditions.

Bail was granted by the Magistrate, but Mr Williams cannot enter the Hamilton area and must report daily to police.

The matter will be back in court on July 12.