Why is it important to have the BAL determined by the council or a suitably qualified consultant?
BAL, or Bushfire Attack Level, is a measure used to determine the category of potential bush fire attack on a property. The methodology for determining the BAL is outlined in Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006 which is accessible on the Rural Fire Service website. Determining the BAL ensures that development is undertaken in such a way that risk to people and property is minimised. It is a requirement that a person who has suitable qualifications and experience undertakes the assessment. This could be either the local council or a person identified as being a ‘suitably qualified consultant’ as well as the Rural Fire Service for the first 12 months of the operation of this policy.
