Safe distances for work near overhead lines

Overhead lines


What does section 2 apply to?

Section 2 applies to any excavation or other earthworks within set distances of power poles or towers. This could be:

  • Digging
  • Cut and fill
  • Grading
  • Trenching
  • Directional drilling

The distances of Section 2 apply regardless of land ownership (i.e. do apply on private property even if the pole is not physically on your property). 


Key distances for section 2

Excavation or other earthworks are restricted within:

  • 5 meters of power poles
  • 12 meters of towers

If your works need to take place within these distances, you will need to consider the following:

  • Will my earthworks be deeper than 750 mm within 5 meters of a power pole?
  • Will my earthworks be deeper than 300 mm within 2.2 meters of a power pole?
  • Will my earthworks be deeper than 3 meters within 12 meters of a tower?
  • Will my earthworks be deeper than 300mm within 6 meters of a tower?

Depending on the extent of your works, you may require additional approvals before a CAC can be issued.