The basic BAL process for a bush block involves several key steps, from initial assessment to final approval. Here’s an overview:
Basic bush block BAL Assessment
The initial BAL site assessment determines the potential exposure of your building to bushfire attack. A qualified bushfire assessor evaluates the site’s vegetation type, distance to vegetation, land slope, and fire danger index. They document the results in a BAL Report and issue a BAL Certificate.
BMP or BMS (if required)
If the initial BAL rating is high (BAL-40 or BAL-FZ), the site is in a LGA Control area, there are environmental issues, or if the LGA requires one, a Bushfire Management Plan (BMP) or a Bushfire Management Statement (BMS) may be necessary. These documents outline strategies and measures to reduce the bushfire risk, such as vegetation management, building design/siting, site access routes, and water supply. Additionally, they can suggest modifications to lower the BAL rating, which can potentially save you thousands of dollars.
LGA Approval
Submit the BAL Report, along with the BMP or BMS, to the Local Government Authority (LGA) for approval. The LGA reviews the documents to ensure they meet all regulatory and safety requirements.
Bush Block Vegetation Modification
Once the LGA approves the BMP or BMS, you can modify the vegetation around the proposed building site according to the plan’s recommendations. This may involve clearing or altering vegetation to create an Asset Protection Zone (APZ) that helps reduce the bushfire risk to the structure. In most cases, achieving a BAL-29 or less is required.
Issue of a BAL-29 or less Certificate
After you implement the required vegetation modifications and fire mitigation measures, a qualified assessor conducts a final BAL site assessment. If successful, they issue a new BAL Certificate indicating a rating of BAL-29 or less. Moreover, in some cases, you may skip the initial BAL Assessment and develop a BMP directly if the site’s complexity or high initial BAL rating suggests it, saving you money in the process.
Advice
If you need specific advice on the basic BAL process for a bush block or want to get started on a BAL Assessment, you can contact WA Fire & Safety directly via their website, or call Claire.
For further advice you can go to the Department of Commerce website, or the West Australian Government Website.