Electric line clearance program

It is the practice of ensuring trees and vegetation are a safe distance from powerlines to prevent fire, electrocution and blackouts. 

It involves trimming vegetation back from powerlines to a required minimum distance, which may be increased to account for growth and tree movement in the wind. 

• Your property: You are generally responsible for keeping vegetation clear from powerlines that serve your property.
• Public land: Responsibility may fall to your local council or the electricity distribution business (for example, Ausnet).
• To find out for your area: Contact your local council or your electricity distributor. 

• Safety: It helps prevent fires and electrocution, especially in bushfire-prone areas.
• Reliability: It maintains a reliable supply of electricity by preventing vegetation-related power outages.

• Hire a professional: Always hire a professional arborist or licensed contractor to trim vegetation near powerlines. 
• Maintain growth: Trees should be pruned to direct growth away from lines, not just lopped, to promote healthy growth. 
• Check regulations: Be aware of regulations and ensure clearances meet the required safety standards. 

• Contact your distributor: Call your electricity distributor (for example, Ausnet) for advice on private lines on your property.
• Consult Energy Safe Victoria: For broader information on vegetation management and regulations in your area, visit the Energy Safe Victoria website.
• Contact Council: If you are within the declared areas.