When trees or branches come into contact with powerlines, they can cause power failures, bushfires and serious accidents. Home owners and occupiers are responsible for ensuring trees on their property stay clear of powerlines all year round. Tenants should check to see if tree maintenance is covered in their rental agreement or if their landlord is responsible.
Local councils are usually responsible for trimming trees on street verges. If you see a tree on the street verge growing too close to powerlines, immediately phone your local council. Are your trees too close to powerlines? The clearance zones may vary in your suburb depending on the type of conductor used to transport electricity.
Allow for reasonable regrowth when trimming your trees, so they can be maintained outside the clearance zones all year round. For full details about safe tree distance, view our tree and powerline safety brochure in the top right hand box. Hiring a tree pruner or arborist If your trees require trimming we recommend you hire a professional tree pruner or arborist as it is very dangerous to trim trees anywhere near powerlines.