Is Your Tree Too Close to Power Lines? Know the Rules

Trees and overhead power lines are a common combination across South East Melbourne, from the leafy streets of Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley to the established neighbourhoods of Dandenong, Narre Warren, Berwick, and Frankston. While a well-shaped tree can add shade, privacy, and value to a property, branches that grow too close to live electrical wires create serious risks. In 2026, energy distributors and councils continue to stress that vegetation contact is one of the leading causes of power outages and electrical fires across Victoria, so understanding the rules before you prune or plant is essential for every homeowner and tenant.

Why Tree Clearance Around Power Lines Matters

Overhead power lines carry high voltages, and electricity can jump across a gap to reach a nearby branch, even without direct contact. Wet foliage, strong winds, and swaying branches all increase the chance of contact. When branches touch lines, they can cause power outages, damage equipment, start bushfires in dry conditions, and create a serious electrocution risk for anyone working near them. Gum trees, which are common across the outer south-eastern suburbs, can drop heavy limbs without warning, making regular inspection important.

Who Is Responsible for Trees Near Power Lines in Victoria

Responsibility depends on where the tree and the line are located. In most cases, the electricity distributor in your area, such as AusNet for much of the south-east or United Energy for some suburbs, is responsible for maintaining clearance around high-voltage lines that run through public land or along easements. Low-voltage service lines that connect directly to your home are usually your responsibility, along with the vegetation on your property. Always confirm with your distributor before assuming who must act.

Key Clearance Rules to Know

Victoria's Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations set minimum distances that vegetation must be kept from powerlines. These requirements vary depending on line voltage and whether the line is aerial bundled cable or bare wire. As a general guide:

Keep trees and branches clear of overhead lines by the minimum distances specified in the Electric Line Clearance Regulations and the relevant Victorian Energy Networks Corporation guidance.
Never attempt to prune, cut, or remove branches that are touching or close to power lines. Contact your distributor or a licensed professional instead.
Check whether the tree is on council land, in which case the local council may need to approve or carry out works.
Consider the tree's mature height and spread, not just its current size, before planting near any wires.

Warning Signs Your Tree Needs Attention

Look for branches growing into or past the line, bark rubbing or scorch marks on wires, flickering lights, crackling sounds near the line, or visible sparks. Dead limbs hanging over lines are also a hazard. If you notice any of these signs, keep well away from the tree and report the issue immediately.

What to Do If Branches Are Too Close

Start by contacting your electricity distributor, which can arrange free vegetation clearance for lines they own. For trees on private property that you are responsible for, engage a qualified arborist who holds appropriate qualifications and carries public liability insurance. Many certified arborists in South East Melbourne are familiar with distributor requirements and can plan pruning that protects the tree's health while meeting clearance standards. In emergencies, such as a fallen line or tree on wires, call 131 349 for SP AusNet or your distributor's emergency line, and call 000 if anyone is in danger.

Planning Ahead for Future Trees

If you are planning a new garden, choose smaller species for areas beneath power lines, and position larger trees well away from overhead infrastructure. Looking ahead toward 2027 and beyond, the trend across Victoria is toward more proactive vegetation management and greater use of https://charlieveic735.lucialpiazzale.com/how-to-prevent-storm-damage-to-trees-in-your-yard data from smart grid sensors, which may help distributors identify risk areas earlier. Keeping clear of lines now protects your home, your neighbours, and the reliability of the local power supply for years to come.

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