Building in Bushfire Zones
Many Melbourne outer suburbs fall within Bushfire Management Overlays. If yours does, your pergola must comply with BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) requirements.
What Is BAL Rating?
BAL measures bushfire risk at your property:
| BAL Level | Risk | Requirements |
| BAL-LOW | Minimal | Standard construction |
| BAL-12.5 | Low | Some restrictions |
| BAL-19 | Moderate | Compliant materials required |
| BAL-29 | High | Significant restrictions |
| BAL-40 | Very High | Strict requirements |
| BAL-FZ (Flame Zone) | Extreme | Severe restrictions |
How to Check Your BAL
1. Check your council's planning maps 2. Request BAL assessment from surveyor 3. Or ask us—we check during site assessment
Compliant Pergola Materials
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Roofing
- ✅ Colorbond steel (non-combustible)
- ✅ Aluminium panels
- ❌ Polycarbonate (BAL-19+)
- ❌ Shade cloth
Framing
- ✅ Steel
- ✅ Aluminium
- ❌ Timber (BAL-19+ restrictions)
Decking (if included)
- ✅ Aluminium decking
- ✅ Fire-rated composite
- ⚠️ Hardwood (species dependent)
- ❌ Treated pine
Design Considerations
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Ember Protection
- Seal gaps where embers could enter
- Use ember-proof meshes
- Consider enclosed eaves
Landscaping
- Clear vegetation near structure
- No bark mulch within 6m
- Use non-combustible garden edges
Gutters
- Metal gutters with leaf guard
- Regular cleaning essential
The Permit Process
BAL-rated construction requires:
- BAL assessment report
- Compliant design and specifications
- Building permit noting BAL compliance
- Inspection verification
Our Experience
We've built numerous pergolas in Melbourne's bushfire-prone areas—the Dandenongs, Macedon Ranges, Kinglake, and more. We know the requirements and handle all compliance.
Building in a bushfire zone? Let's discuss your options.
