Distribution and transmission powerlines
Energy Safe Victoria splits overhead lines into two groups, and the No Go Zone distances differ for each. Distribution lines run from 240V up to 66,000V (66kV) and include the overhead lines for trains and trams. These are the lines on most suburban streets. Transmission lines run from 132kV up to 500kV and are carried on towers or steel poles.
Source: Energy Safe Victoria, "Working around powerlines", checked 27 October 2026.
No Go Zones for distribution powerlines
| Distance from distribution powerlines (up to 66kV) | What is required |
|---|---|
| More than 6.4 m | No specific No Go Zone requirement beyond the Victorian OHS Regulations |
| 3.0 m to 6.4 m (Spotter Zone) | A registered spotter is required |
| Within 3.0 m | Permission from the network operator, plus additional preventative measures |
No Go Zones for transmission towers
| Distance from transmission lines (132kV to 500kV) | What is required |
|---|---|
| More than 10 m | No specific No Go Zone requirement beyond the OHS Regulations |
| 8 m to 10 m (Spotter Zone) | A registered spotter is required |
| Within 8 m | Permission from the network operator |
Source for both tables: Energy Safe Victoria, "Working around powerlines", checked 27 October 2026.
Spotters
A spotter watches the gap between the crane and the lines and warns the operator early of any encroachment on the No Go Zone. Energy Safe Victoria sets out what that involves:
- The spotter must stay at the task for the whole time the plant operates near the lines, as set out in the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS).
- They may watch only one item of plant at a time.
- The contractor must induct them into the site safety procedures, including the SWMS.
- They must have completed an endorsed spotter training course with a registered training provider and be registered with Energy Safe Victoria.
- They must be competent in the design envelope and operation of the plant being used, and the hazards of overhead electrical assets.
Source: Energy Safe Victoria, "Working around powerlines", checked 27 October 2026.
Find out who owns the lines
Permission to work within 3.0 m comes from the network operator that owns the poles in your area. Energy Safe Victoria lists the five Victorian power companies:
| Power company | Phone |
|---|---|
| AusNet Services | 1300 360 795 |
| Jemena | 131 626 |
| Powercor | 132 206 |
| CitiPower | 1300 301 101 |
| United Energy | 1300 131 689 |
The locations of Victorian overhead powerlines have been published on DEECA's DataShare platform since September 2021. For underground services, the asset owner holds the records, or you can request them free through Before You Dig Australia.
Source: Energy Safe Victoria, "Working around powerlines", checked 27 October 2026.
Sag, sway and hot days
Lines move. Energy Safe Victoria warns that powerlines can sag in hot weather, leaving less clearance than you expect, and that you do not have to touch a line for it to arc. Measure the clearance on the day, not from a photo taken in winter.
If a crane hits a powerline
Energy Safe Victoria's advice: if you are in a vehicle that hits or arcs a powerline, stay in the vehicle and call for help. If you see someone hit a powerline, stay at least eight metres away and call 000.
Source: Energy Safe Victoria, "Working around powerlines", checked 27 October 2026.
What to tell the operator
Mention any overhead lines in your quote request, say roughly how far they are from where the crane would set up, and send a photo if you can. The operator can then plan the set-up position, decide whether a spotter is needed, and work out whether a smaller machine such as a spider crane or a Franna could keep further from the lines.
Frequently asked questions
How close can a crane get to powerlines in Victoria?
For distribution powerlines up to 66kV, Energy Safe Victoria's No Go Zone rules say that work between 3.0 m and 6.4 m needs a registered spotter. Within 3.0 m, you need permission from the network operator and additional preventative measures.
Who is a spotter?
A person who has completed an endorsed spotter training course with a registered training provider, is registered with Energy Safe Victoria, and stays with one item of plant for the whole time it works near the lines.
What are the No Go Zones for transmission lines?
For transmission lines of 132kV to 500kV on towers or steel poles, a registered spotter is needed between 8 m and 10 m, and permission from the network operator is needed within 8 m.
What should I do if a crane touches a powerline?
Energy Safe Victoria says to stay in the vehicle and call for help if you are in it. Anyone nearby should stay at least eight metres away and call 000.
Crane hire services
Smaller machines can help near lines: see spider crane hire, mini crane hire and crane truck hire.