Why Consider Bush Fire
Bush fire presents a major challenge to the community. It has been a natural part of our landscape for thousands of years and remains an ever-present threat. Prior to August 2002 the potential impacts of bush fire on new development across NSW did not require consideration. As such, residential settlement patterns demanded by a growing population, has occurred in areas that are bush fire prone placing lives and property at risk.
In response to devastating losses of life and property in past bush fire events, on 1st of August 2002, the NSW Government enacted legislative changes to ensure bush fire matters were considered in the development process.
These legislative changes result in the creation of section 79BA of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997 which require all new development on bush fire prone land to comply with Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006. The provisions set out in Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006 form the basis for all bush fire planning and bush fire protection measures for new development in NSW.
By improving land use planning including building design, construction and maintenance in bush fire prone areas, development consent authorities (e.g. council) are incorporating management strategies crucial to mitigating the impact of bush fire on buildings and the community.
Buildings can be destroyed or damaged from bush fire due to a number of forms of attack; ember attack, radiant heat and or direct flame contact. Wind can weaken the building elements and make them more susceptible to these forms of attack whilst smoke can impact upon the health of the occupants and fire fighters.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has, under the Rural Fires Act 1997 a statutory obligation to protect life, property and the environment through fire suppression and fire prevention.
For further information, contact your local Fire Control Centre or RFS Development Control Services on (02) 8741 5555.
Click here for more information about the Planning for Bush Fire Protection.
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