Are you planning to build in the City of Busselton and need simple guidance on BAL Assessments? Here’s a straightforward overview with essential local details.
If you are purchasing block or thinking about this you may want to read some of the other blogs first, like the below ones:
Understanding BAL Assessments in Busselton
Are you requested for a BAL Assessment and unsure of its importance? A Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Assessment is essential. If the rating is high, you might also need a Bushfire Management Plan (BMP). However, Busselton generally does not accept a Bushfire Management Statement (BMS), as requirements depend on the local Planning Scheme or LGA.
Check further details on the City of Busselton website.
Development Approval (DA) Checklist
Refer to the BAL Assessment section in the City of Busselton’s DA Checklist. Following these guidelines ensures safety and prevents approval delays. There are two stages to complete, but ultimately, a final BAL-29 or less assessment is required to issue your building permit approval.
For more information and steps, visit the City of Busselton website or contact the relevant local authorities.
You Don’t Need a BAL Assessment When:
- Your property is not in a Bushfire Prone Area.
- Making internal renovations that don’t increase the dwelling’s footprint.
- Modifying or replacing walls, windows, posts, decks, or other existing sections.
- Constructing a shed more than 6 meters from a dwelling.
You may need a BAL Assessment when:
- Replacing a roof in a Bushfire Prone Area.
- Adding or extending that increases the footprint of the dwelling.
- Building new structures within 6 meters of a habitable dwelling.
- Constructing new dwellings.
- Starting a home business, changing the use, adding a granny flat, or similar extensions.
Clarifications and notes:
- 6m Rule: Non-habitable structures (like Class 10a sheds) more than 6 meters from dwellings might not need BAL construction to AS3959 or a BAL.
- Granny Flats: If outside the Bushfire Prone Area and more than 6 meters from a dwelling with that designation, a granny flat is considered non-associated and might avoid additional requirements.
Building Permits and BAL Certificates:
To obtain a Building Permit, follow these steps depending on your planning approval status:
- With Planning Approval:
- Modify the vegetation to achieve a BAL rating of 29 or less.
- Obtain a BAL Report and Certificate confirming this rating.
- Submit these documents to secure your Building Permit.
- Without Planning Approval:
- For smaller lots or single dwellings in very low-risk areas, a BAL Assessment might suffice, provided the rating is BAL-29 or less.
Following these steps ensures you meet the requirements and avoid unnecessary delays in securing your building permit. For the latest advice, contact Claire or Dwayne at 0473078179.
or try put Bushfire assistant on the webpage:
