How to report trees on powerlines

Spotted a tree getting a bit too close to the lines out front? You’re right to pause and check. Trees brushing against power infrastructure can cause outages, fires, and serious safety risks. Even a single branch can cause real damage if it ends up where it shouldn’t. One thing’s for sure. This isn’t something to sort out on your own. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to report trees on powerlines, who to contact, and when it’s time to bring in a qualified team.

When to report trees on powerlines

Not every tree near a line is urgent, but some are worth reporting straight away. If something doesn’t look right, it’s best to act. Here’s what to watch for:

• Branches growing too close to or touching overhead lines
• Trees or large limbs that have come down onto wires after wild weather
• Any signs of sparking, smoke, or burning near poles or electrical equipment
  

Even if it seems stable, a tree like that could still be dangerous. Damage isn’t always visible from the outside. After storms or high winds, trees may look unusual or lean in ways they didn’t before. It doesn’t take much to cut off power or cause a fire. When in doubt, let the right people take a look.

This kind of situation often falls under vegetation management. If you see trees and shrubs growing too close to a powerline, it’s a sign to act. Clearing vegetation growing too close to powerlines helps reduce bushfire risk and ensures the area stays safe for the community.

You can learn more about how to manage trees near powerlines safely from Energy Safe Victoria.

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Who to contact about managing trees near powerlines

If the tree is on public land or a street

In most cases, your local council or electricity distributor is responsible for vegetation around poles and public infrastructure. If you're not sure who it falls under, don’t guess. Let the right authority handle it.

If you want to understand more about how responsibility is shared between councils, distributors, and property owners, take a look at our guide on who’s responsible for trimming trees near powerlines.

If the tree is on your property

If the tree is growing near your service line — that’s the wire connecting your home to the network — you may be the one responsible for keeping it clear. You don’t need to know every council rule, but it’s worth understanding your own obligations.

To see what applies where you live, check the service wire clearance regulations for your council area.

If you’re unsure about your clearance space or have trees and vegetation that may be growing too close to your home's service wires, we offer professional powerline clearance services across Melbourne to keep things tidy, compliant, and safe.

How to report tree branches on powerlines

Once you’ve spotted a tree or branch getting too close to live lines, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what to do:

1. Take a safe look

Keep well back from any wires or vegetation that’s come into contact with them. Don’t try to move or trim anything yourself. Leave it to the experts — even a small branch near wires can cause major problems. This is especially true in bushfire risk areas, where the chance of fire spreading is higher.

2. Work out who to contact

• For public land, report it to your local council or the electricity distributor that manages your area.
• For trees on your property, contact your power company or speak to a qualified arborist who’s trained to work near live lines.

3. Make the report

Use the online form or hotline listed on the council or distributor website. Try to be clear about the exact location and what you’ve seen — like a branch resting on wires out the front, or smoke near a power pole. If the vegetation is within one metre of the powerline, that’s usually within the no-go zone and should be addressed immediately.

4. Get help if it’s your responsibility

If it’s on your property, we’ve got you covered. Trav’s Tree Services is trained, insured, and qualified to manage vegetation around your service wires. Our team is experienced in service wire clearance and understands all the rules around electrical safety. We’ll assess the site, explain the safest option, and get it sorted.

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Managing trees for safety around powerlines

Looking after vegetation near power infrastructure isn’t just about emergencies. It helps avoid outages, keeps your property compliant, and reduces the risk of damage or bushfires during summer.

But it’s not a job for just anyone. Tree trimming near live lines is dangerous work without the right training. Qualified arborists like our team are equipped to carry out this work safely and legally. We know how to prune different tree species properly, maintain safe clearance, and keep trees healthy while meeting safety standards.

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Need help with trees near service wires?

If something’s not sitting right or you just want peace of mind, give us a call or message us through our website. Trav’s Tree Services helps property owners across Melbourne manage trees near overhead lines. We understand local rules, know what to look for, and have the equipment to handle even the tricky jobs.

‍Call us today for professional help with trees near powerlines.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between tree pruning and tree cutting near powerlines?

Pruning is the selective trimming of branches to maintain tree health, while tree cutting generally refers to removing larger sections or the entire tree. Around power infrastructure, pruning can help shape growth away from danger zones. However, both must follow strict safety procedures when done near overhead powerlines.

How far should trees be kept away from powerlines?

Clearance rules vary by location, but a good rule of thumb is keeping vegetation at least several metres away from the lines. In Victoria, trees often need to maintain a minimum clearance distance that provides a safe clearance space around live wires. Local distributors and councils set the minimum standards for these clearances.

Can trees really cause power outages or power surges?

Yes, absolutely. Trees that contact or interfere with lines can conduct electricity, disrupt the power supply, cause outages, or even create power surges. These issues can damage appliances and put people at risk. That’s why keeping trees and other vegetation clear of powerlines is essential for electricity safety.

Why are trees cut in specific shapes around powerlines?

To meet line clearance rules, trees are cut in specific shapes that allow enough space around powerlines while still keeping the tree healthy. These shapes may look unusual, but they follow vegetation management standards that are designed to balance safety with tree preservation.

What should I do if I see trees touching powerlines?

If you notice trees touching powerlines or vegetation wrapped around the wires, do not go near it. This is extremely dangerous and could bring down powerlines or cause electric shock. Move to a safe distance and report it immediately. If the tree is on public land, contact your local council or distributor.

Who is responsible for keeping trees clear of service wires on private property?

Property owners are generally responsible for keeping trees clear on their side of the property boundary. This includes regular tree maintenance to ensure vegetation stays clear of powerlines. If you’re unsure where the responsibility lies, a qualified arborist can help you assess the situation.

Do I need permission to remove a tree near overhead powerlines or service wires?

You might. Some councils require a permit for tree removal, especially in areas with protected vegetation. If you’re working near overhead powerlines, always check with your distributor and contact your local council before cutting anything back. It’s also best to get a professional to cut the vegetation safely.

How often should I inspect trees around service wires?

Trees around service wires should be inspected at least once a year, especially in high-risk or bushfire-prone areas. Regular checks help spot fallen powerlines, storm damage, or limbs growing within the vegetation clearance space. An arborist can help identify problems before they become serious hazards.