Building in a Bushfire‑Prone Area in Tasmania

Building in a Bushfire‑Prone Area in Tasmania

Building in a Bushfire-Prone Area in Tasmania: Understanding Your Water Tank Requirements

If you’re building or developing in a bushfire-prone area in Tasmania, water storage for firefighting isn’t optional — it’s a mandatory requirement set out in your Development Application (DA).

Your Bushfire Hazard Management Plan (BHMP) and Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating, prepared as part of your planning process, will determine exactly what’s required for your property. The Tasmanian Planning Scheme, Tas Fire Service, and your building surveyor will all play a role in confirming the final specifications.

 

The Standard Requirement: 10,000L Galvanised Steel Fire Tank

For most properties in bushfire-prone areas, the DA will require:

  • Capacity: Minimum 10,000 litres dedicated to firefighting
  • Material: Galvanised steel construction
  • Fittings: Storz fire fittings compatible with Tas Fire Service
  • Access: Located within a set distance of structures, with all-weather vehicle access for firefighting crews

These tanks are dedicated fire water storage tanks; they are not generally plumbed for domestic use.

 

Why Steel Is the Default Choice

Galvanised steel tanks are the standard because they:

  • Meet structural requirements for firefighting connections
  • Withstand high radiant heat for longer periods
  • Are recognised by local authorities as meeting compliance for most bushfire DA conditions

 

Important Notes for Compliance

  • The tank must be full at all times and clearly marked as firefighting water.
  • Firefighting fittings must be installed at the correct height and position.
  • The tank’s location must allow a fire truck to access it safely in all weather.
  • Your building surveyor will inspect and approve installation before the final sign-off.
  • You’ll need to provide evidence of installation and compliance to your local council.

 

Fire Tank vs Domestic Water Tank

While the fire tank satisfies bushfire safety requirements, most properties will also need a separate domestic water tank for household supply. This is where poly water tanks shine — they’re food-grade, corrosion-free, and ideal for everyday drinking water storage.
(See our guide: Best Water Tanks for Bushfire-Prone Areas in Tasmania.)

 

Poly Fire Water Tank Option

While galvanised steel is the default for compliance, Tankworld Tasmania also offers a poly fire water tank designed to meet specific strict criteria set by certain councils or property circumstances.

  • This option is only suitable in certain approved cases — it’s essential to confirm with your building surveyor, local council, and the Tas Fire Service before selecting a poly fire tank.
  • When permitted, it offers a lightweight, corrosion-free alternative without compromising on firefighting connection requirements.

 

Useful Links & References

 

Disclaimer

This article is provided as general information only. Bushfire-prone area requirements can vary based on location, development type, BAL rating, and your Bushfire Hazard Management Plan. Always confirm requirements with:

  • Your building surveyor (who has final approval authority)
  • Your local council
  • The Tasmanian Fire Service

 

Your Bushfire Tank Experts

With over 30 years manufacturing tanks for Tasmanian conditions, Tankworld Tasmania can:

  • Supply fully compliant 10,000L galvanised steel fire tanks
  • Advise on approved poly fire tank alternatives
  • Deliver and position tanks to meet both council and Tas Fire Service requirements on to your prepared site

Contact us today to discuss your bushfire tank requirements and ensure your property is both compliant and protected.

 

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