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.