Nine design features for bushfire risk reduction via urban planning

Abstract

This paper reports the results of research into the design and planning controls of nine international planning jurisdictions dealing with bushfire or wildfire threats. The research sets out fundamental principles to guide the design of settlements at the site and subdivision level with the aim of improving the ability of land-use planning to deliver resilience outcomes in bushfire-prone areas. The analysis and categorisation of design elements internationally was supported by interviews with Australian bushfire experts. The research concludes that there are nine fundamental land-use principles guiding the design of settlements at risk of bushfire impacts.