If you’re thinking about building a shed or outbuilding in Busselton, one of the first things you should check is whether your property is located in a bushfire-prone area.
Bushfires are a serious risk in Western Australia, and areas of Busselton are officially designated as bushfire-prone by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). These areas are updated regularly and shown on the Map of Bushfire Prone Areas. You can check your property’s status here.
What Does “Bushfire-Prone” Actually Mean?
A bushfire-prone designation doesn’t mean you can’t build, but it does mean you need to follow specific planning and building rules to reduce fire risk. These rules are laid out in State Planning Policy 3.7: Planning in Bushfire-Prone Areas and the Bushfire Guidelines.
If your property is located in one of these areas, you may be required to provide additional documentation, such as a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) assessment, as part of your development application.
What Is a BAL Rating?
A BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) assessment measures how much risk your building faces from potential bushfire exposure, based on things like vegetation, slope, and distance from fuel sources. The BAL rating determines what level of fire-resistant materials and design standards are needed for your shed or structure.
There are six BAL levels, ranging from BAL-LOW (minimal risk) to BAL-FZ (extreme risk – direct exposure to flames). The higher your rating, the more construction requirements will apply.
When Is a BAL Assessment Needed for a Shed?
According to the City of Busselton’s guidelines, a BAL assessment is usually required if:
- Your shed is being built less than 6 metres from a habitable building
- The total cost of construction is more than $20 000
- You’re building on a lot 1110 sqm or larger, and the shed increases bushfire risk or site intensity
You don’t usually need to submit a full Bushfire Management Plan (BMP) for a standalone shed unless it forms part of a more complex development or is linked to vulnerable uses (like aged care or visitor accommodation). However, a BAL assessment is still often needed to ensure your shed meets the right construction standards.
For detailed requirements, view the official information sheet from the City of Busselton.
How to Get a BAL Assessment
You’ll need to engage an Accredited Bushfire Practitioner to carry out your BAL assessment. You can find a registered practitioner via the FPA Australia website. Once your BAL is confirmed, it will guide what materials, construction methods, and clearances are needed for your shed.
Keep in mind:
- BAL ratings are valid for 12 months
- BMPs (if required) are valid for 24 months
Tips Before You Build
- Check the Bushfire Prone Map early in your planning to avoid delays
- Talk to a local shed builder in Busselton (like Westspan Sheds) who understands WA regulations
- Allow time for planning approvals, especially if additional assessments are needed
- Speak to your local council (City of Busselton) if you’re unsure about your obligations
At Westspan Sheds, we’ve helped hundreds of Busselton locals build safe, durable sheds that meet both functional needs and local compliance. If you’re in a bushfire-prone area, we’ll guide you through what’s needed. Contact the team at Westspan Sheds, and we’ll walk you through the process.
