A bushfire hazard landscape assessment provides information to planning and responsible authorities on:

  • the bushfire hazard
  • potential bushfire behaviour
  • the impact of other relevant strategic considerations in the landscape that are likely to affect a given location such as the road network and nearby safer areas.

The assessment is not only an information tool.  It helps inform the appropriate response to a planning proposal. For example, it helps determine the level of bushfire risk, assists with the assessment of siting and design, and raises questions about access and egress options.

For new development in the BMO, where the risk of bushfire is very high, it helps identify if enhanced protection measures will be required.

The purpose of the assessment is not to predict the outcome of a bushfire event. It provides information that builds a better understanding of the bushfire risk at a location. This helps informed decision making.

The information is typically provided in report format including spatial diagrams, plans and photos.

All planning proposals including strategic planning and planning permits, will need to provide a landscape assessment, except:

  • a single dwelling permit application where a Bushfire Management Overlay schedule applies
  • a single dwelling permit application in an urban residential zone
  • where a council waives the requirement under the BMO.

Refer to following document on how to prepare a landscape assessment.:

See information on why landscape assessments are important in strategic planning

Page last updated: 25/01/22