CFA's Role in Statutory and Strategic Land Use Planning
CFA's statutory planning responsibilities
CFA influences future development through its statutory responsibilities as a Referral Authority under Section 55 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987. As a Referral Authority CFA aims to ensure fire protection is considered and incorporated into the design of all new developments.
CFA's statutory responsibilities include providing advice on:
- Planning permit applications for development in the BMO
- Planning permit applications for subdivisions outside the metropolitan fire district that create a road
- Certification of subdivision plans, and;
- Statements of compliance
In response to a referred planning permit application, CFA may:
- agree to the granting of a permit
- agree subject to conditions
- object, or;
- request further information.
Non-mandatory referrals
CFA also provides comment on planning permit applications when they are referred by Councils under Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
Planning permit applications referred under Section 52 have slightly different implications for CFA and the Responsible Authority. The key difference is that the Responsible Authority is not mandated to follow CFA advice or include suggested conditions.
Strategic planning
CFA has additional responsibilities through its involvement in strategic land use planning, working with the community, other state agencies, local councils and the State Government to minimise bushfire risk through the development of strategic land use planning policies.
CFA develops guidelines and requirements, provides input into Precinct Structure Plans, Municipal Strategic Statements in Planning Schemes, and facilitates education sessions.
