Prepare Your Property for Bushfire

Property preparation reduces the chance of ignition, helps firefighters work safely and improves the likelihood that a building can survive ember attack and radiant heat. It does not make a property fireproof.

Start with the Current Notice

Read the Shire’s current Bushfire Management Notice before starting work. Requirements differ by land size, location, land use and the presence of assets. The notice is the first and final notice under section 33 of the Bush Fires Act 1954.

Asset Protection Zones

Properties with assets must maintain an Asset Protection Zone extending 20 metres from the outermost point of the asset, or to the property boundary where the boundary is closer. Under the 2026–2027 notice, the zone must meet requirements including:

fuel loads at or below 2 tonnes per hectare
grass maintained at 50 millimetres or less
lower branches on trees taller than 5 metres pruned to at least 2 metres above the ground
no branches overhanging the asset
trees and shrubs within 2 metres of the asset maintained as required by the notice
roofs, gutters, walls and other surfaces kept free of flammable material.

Firebreaks and Access

Where the notice requires a firebreak, it must be continuous, trafficable, free of flammable material and at least 4 metres wide with 4 metres vertical clearance. It must not end in a dead end. Maintained lawn may be accepted only where it provides the same clear width and height.

Driveways and access to structures must provide at least 4 metres clear width and 4 metres vertical clearance so firefighting vehicles can enter and leave safely.

Reduce Fuel and Ember Entry

Remove accumulated leaves, bark, twigs and other fine fuels near buildings.
Keep lawns, gardens and vegetation maintained to the standards in the current notice.
Move firewood, gas cylinders and combustible storage away from buildings and exits.
Repair gaps where embers could enter roofs, eaves, vents, doors and windows using appropriate products and professional advice.
Keep water supplies, pumps and hoses maintained, clearly identified and accessible. Do not assume mains water or electricity will remain available.
Make sure your property number is visible from the road and gates can be opened by emergency vehicles.

Before Clearing Vegetation

Check planning, environmental and heritage requirements before clearing. Threatened ecological communities, declared rare flora, watercourses and Aboriginal cultural heritage may require approval or specialist advice. A Bushfire Management Plan applying to the property may also contain additional requirements.