That depends on the type and stage of your development:

• New homes in bushfire-prone areas typically require a BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) Assessment to determine the construction standards under AS 3959.

• A Bushfire Management Plan (BMP) is usually needed for subdivisions, larger lots, or sites without a reticulated water supply, and is commonly required at the planning approval stage.

• Projects involving vulnerable occupants—such as childcare centres, aged care facilities, or schools—will also need a Bushfire Emergency Plan (BEP).

• Developments with high-risk land uses (like fuel stations or sites with hazardous materials) may require a Bushfire Risk Management Plan (BRMP).

Still unsure? Contact us and we’ll help determine which report is right for your project.

The contents of a bushfire report depend on the type of assessment required, but generally include:

• Vegetation type and proximity to proposed buildings

• Slope of the land, which affects fire behaviour

• Separation distances between vegetation and assets

For Bushfire Management Plans (BMPs), reports also assess:

• Access for emergency vehicles and evacuation

• Water supply availability, such as tanks or hydrants

• Compliance with bushfire planning criteria under SPP 3.7

For more specialised documents like Bushfire Emergency Plans (BEPs) or Bushfire Risk Management Plans (BRMPs), assessments also consider:

• Evacuation strategies

• Staff training requirements

• Risk containment for hazardous materials or vulnerable occupants

Each report is tailored to your site and proposal, ensuring the assessment meets policy, planning, and safety standards.

A BAL Assessment is usually needed when applying for a Building Licence. A BMP is typically required earlier—at the planning or subdivision stage—to support a Development Application. BEPs and BRMPs are submitted alongside DAs for vulnerable or high-risk land uses.

Your report will include your BAL rating, and potentially a list of bushfire mitigation requirements, such as vegetation clearing, construction upgrades, or water supply improvements if you had a BMP completed.

These documents will need to be shown in your building or development plans when submitting to council.
It's important your builder is aware of the BAL rating and conditions early to avoid delays or non-compliance.

Only BPAD-accredited practitioners can complete valid bushfire reports.

• Level 1 & 2 practitioners can prepare BAL Assessments and most BMPs (with sign-off from a senior member where required)

• Level 3 accreditation is required for BEPs and BRMPs

Bushfire Smart has one of the few Level 3 practitioners in WA, meaning we can service all report types in-house.