Building in Bushfire Prone Areas

A property in a designated bushfire prone area may need additional planning and building information.

Check the site early, as bushfire requirements can affect siting, access, water, vegetation and construction cost.

Check the Mapping

Use the State Map of Bush Fire Prone Areas as an initial check.

Mapping can change and does not replace site-specific assessment.

Bushfire Attack Level

A Bushfire Attack Level assessment measures potential exposure to ember attack, radiant heat and direct flame contact.

The BAL can affect the building location, design and construction requirements.

Development (Planning) Applications

Depending on the proposal, the Shire may require a BAL assessment, Bushfire Management Plan, Bushfire Emergency Evacuation Plan or other information under the State planning framework and local scheme.

Building Applications

The National Construction Code and AS 3959 may apply to building work in a bushfire prone area.

The required construction response depends on the building, BAL and scope of work.

Provide the approved bushfire documents with the building application and keep the design coordinated.

Choose a Practitioner

The Shire's current page states that BAL reports must be prepared by a BPAD-accredited practitioner.

Confirm the required accreditation and scope with Development Services before commissioning the assessment.

Plan the Whole Site

vehicle access and emergency access
firefighting water supply
vegetation management and asset protection zones
onsite wastewater and stormwater
environmental and heritage constraints
ongoing owner responsibilities under approved bushfire plans