19/04/2026
Not all dangers are on the ground.
Before you plant, trim or clear any vegetation, always check for overhead powerlines.
Electricity can jump a long way.
If you’re using ladders or machinery, it’s important to know the exclusion zones around powerlines which is the minimum safe distance you must maintain from powerlines.
Most powerlines have a three-metre exclusion zone.
High-voltage powerlines between 132kV and 330kV have a minimum exclusion zone of six metres.
Powerlines over 330kV have an exclusion zone of 8 metres.
The best way to stay electrically safe is to maintain the greatest possible distance from powerlines, and follow these simple steps:
✅ Treat all powerlines as live.
✅ Always inspect the site and identify hazards before commencing work.
✅ Do not trim trees or manage vegetation where any part of the tree or vegetation is within the exclusion zone or could fall within the exclusion zone.
For more information on overhead powerlines visit: https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/electrical-safety-outside-home/powerlines-and-underground-cables