Complying Development
BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) Certificate
Do you need a BAL Certificate?
Traditionally if you want to build a dwelling on bushfire prone land you would go through a development application through the council. In 2011 the state environmental planning policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 (the Codes SEPP) were amended to significantly expand the range of exempt and complying development across the State and increase the number of properties to which the codes SEPP applies.
Complying and Development is development which complies with specified pre-determined development standards contained in the relevant environmental plan instrument. A Complying Development Certificate from a Certifying Authority such as the local council or an accredited certifier must be obtained. This means that if you are building in a low risk bush fire prone area you can apply to circumvent the council route by employing the services of a private accredited certifier.
To enable this Harris Environmental (Certified & Qualified Bushfire Assessment Consultant) can certify if your proposal complies with a BAL Certificate.