Explanation of Bushfire Protection Measures

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Please note with the gazettal of VC248 on 5th May 2026 that has resulted in significant changes to Clauses 13.02, 44.06 and 53.02 of the Victoria Planning Provisions. CFA's website is currently being updated to reflect the changes however in the interim it is recommended you visit the Department of Transport & Planning website for the latest information and supporting materials.

The purpose of this information is to provide a plain English explanation of the five bushfire protection measures that are referred to in CFA's standard planning permit conditions.

It is intended that this information will assist landowners in understanding likely requirements before the lodgement of a planning permit application; Councils in interpreting referral responses and conditions; and permit holders when they are implementing the conditions.

The glossary of terms should be a starting point to understand some of the terminology used.

Measure	Brief overview	More detail
1. Defendable space	Defendable space is an area of land around a building where vegetation (fuel) is modified and managed to reduce the effects of flame contact and radiant heat associated with a bushfire.	PDF
2. Access	Access from the primary road network to the building needs to be provided and designed to enable occupants of the building safe access and exiting in the event of an emergency. Clear access to the water supply may also crucial in the event of a fire.	PDF
3. Water supply	The provision of a dedicated water supply, with appropriate volume, access and markings will ensure that, in the event of a bushfire, a property is well equipped to defend against a bushfire if required.	PDF
4. Construction standard	Building construction and design can be used to minimise the impact of ember attack and radiant heat on a building. Construction requirements for buildings are expressed as a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) as prescribed in AS3959 or NASH Standard.	PDF
5. Residential subdivisions	Bushfire mitigation measures should be clearly identified at the subdivision stage.	PDF