Fire crews have managed to control a large blaze at a rubbish dump in Melbourne's east.

The fire broke out at the Knox Transfer Station and recycling centre in George Street, Wantirna South, shortly before 2:00pm.

More than 100 firefighters struggled for three hours but managed to control the fire by 5:00pm.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) earlier said smoke from the blaze was affecting traffic on the nearby EastLink freeway, but said the toll road was no longer impacted.

A warning was also issued earlier for people in the local area due to smoke.

Fire fanned by blustery winds

At least 30 fire trucks remained at the scene.

The fire flared in windy conditions and crews were wearing breathing equipment.

Firefighters were also being hindered by nearby grass and scrub fires.

The CFA's Don Tompkins said the tip fire was relatively small in size, but it had sparked the grass and scrub fires in surrounding paddocks.

"It has been spotting down towards the south and causing a number of grass fires, which is giving us a bit of concern," he said.

"It's also pushing a little bit of smoke down into the residential area."

The fire sent thick plumes of smoke across EastLink, but the CFA says traffic is now flowing normally. ( ABC News: Ben Ansell )

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and WorkSafe were called to the scene.

Traffic around the area was being managed by Victoria Police, and Ambulance Victoria was on standby. But there were no reports of injuries.

The CFA said there was no longer any threat to the community, but motorists and local residents were advised to stay informed and monitor conditions.