thisplace.com.au - Powerlines - Tree Trimming & Planting

Why is Trimming Trees important?

There are numerous incidents each year where trees or branches are blown into powerlines during storms or are knocked down by people working near powerlines, causing interruptions to power supply. Not only does this cause inconvenience to householders and businesses, but falling trees bringing down powerlines are extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.

Play it safe and do not attempt to trim trees near powerlines yourself. Call ENERGEX on 13 12 53 if you have a tree you believe is too close to powerlines.

Planting Guidelines

The following guidelines will be helpful when considering what and where to plant:

Mature height of tree should not exceed 4 metres near powerlines in built up areas, rural areas or near service lines (diagram 1).
If you want to plant trees taller than 6 metres then you should apply the 45 degree rule, plant them at a distance from powerlines at least equal to the expected height of the tree (diagram 2).
At no time in its growing life should a tree touch, overhang or be able to fall across an overhead powerlines. Certain species of gum trees are particularly prone to dropping branches.
Always ask yourself if there is enough space? How high will the tree grow? Will it grow into overhead powerlines or interfere with underground cables? If I plant near powerlines will it need trimming?

Source: Energex Safetree