A rating of a site's bushfire exposure, from BAL-LOW through to BAL-FZ (Flame Zone), based on surrounding vegetation, slope and distance. A higher BAL triggers stricter construction standards (screens, glazing, materials) that can add to build cost and shape the design.
Source: AS 3959 — Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas
What it means for what you can build
Your BAL rating sets the construction standards a bushfire-exposed site must meet. A higher BAL rating can add costs through requirements such as fire shutters, toughened glazing and non-combustible materials.
Related terms
See this on your own property
Run any Australian address through Struqt to see whether bal rating applies to your block, and what it means for what you can build.