Fire access to a new subdivision

[bmerc]

A proposed 50 house subdivision is situated in an area that will connect to cul-de-sacs, but a debate exists on it's connection to a main state route. The debate primarily is due to the fact that this access would have to cross a wetland piece 60' X 40', and the question raise is if there were less houses would this access be required???

The access via the state route seemed to be the right thing, it connects to a economic center and provides for better access for public safety since the other two access come from connecting local roads, that are winding and narrower. IS THERE ANY FIRE / SAFETY GUIDES THAT IDENTIFY THAT IT IS DISTANCE TO A LOCATION FROM FIRE AND POLICE VERSES NUMBER OF UNITS THAT GOVERN NUMBER AND TYPE OF ACCESS???

 

[sc]

None that I know of in Australia, however, the main state roads are generally considered to be limited access roads and subdivisions do no generally connect straight onto them. There is generally some form of service road or a single entry point only.

In most subdivisions that I have designed I have tried to maintain at least 2 ways in so that in an emergency there are 2 ways out. This is not always possible.

The main general rule for access is can an emergency vehicle access all sites with reasonable speed. I determine this using a single unit truck (generally the larger fire truck size in regional centres in Australia) for design of road widths and intersections.


regards
sc

 

[RJLDesign]

Be carfull usally main roads are under control of DMR/RTA dept. And most councils and DMR/RTA dont agree on access issues.

If your main road is under main road control your access could be granted but the council could hit your client with major roundabout or traffic light intersection. And as im sure your aware councils are not concerned with your clients wallet.