Who is responsible for trimming trees near powerlines?

When trees start leaning into powerlines, you’ve got more than a messy yard. One overhanging branch can cause a blackout, a fire, or a dangerous shock. That’s why there are clear safety rules around trimming trees near electrical lines.

Here’s where it gets confusing. The rules shift depending on where the tree is and which type of line it’s near. Are you the landowner? Is it council land? Or is it something the power company handles? Knowing who’s responsible is the first step to doing the right thing — safely and legally.

This blog cuts through the confusion. You’ll find out who’s in charge, what you’re allowed to do yourself, and when it’s time to bring in a pro. Let’s make it easy.

Who is responsible on private property?

You are responsible for your service wire clearance

If there’s a tree growing on your property and it’s getting close to the line that runs from the power pole to your house, that’s your service wire. Keeping it clear is your job. Property owners are responsible for managing trees that grow too close to this part of the network.

As a rule of thumb, keep vegetation at least one metre away. Trees grow faster than you think, especially after a wet spring. It’s a good idea to check regularly and book in maintenance before things get too close for comfort.

What you can and can’t do yourself

You’re absolutely allowed to trim trees around your property, as long as they’re well clear of any electrical lines. But once those branches start leaning toward your service wire, it’s time to step away from the ladder.

Untrained residents shouldn’t go near powerlines with tools. Not only is it unsafe, it’s illegal in many cases. Only properly licensed arborists are allowed to work near live wires, and for good reason. They’ve got the training, the gear, and the know-how to do the job safely.

When to call a professional

Here’s when it’s smart to bring in the experts:

• The tree is growing within half a metre of your electrical service wire
• You’re unsure about the rules or safety requirements
• You’d rather avoid damage, fines, or a risky DIY job

If any of that sounds familiar, don’t take a punt. Check the service wire clearance regulations in your area, then call someone who knows how to handle it properly.

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Who is responsible on public land or the street?

Councils and power distributors share responsibility

When a tree is growing on public land, like a street nature strip or local park, the job of keeping it clear is usually split. Local councils manage most street trees, reserves, and public spaces, while electricity providers take care of the bigger picture: keeping their infrastructure safe and operational.

If a tree is near poles, wires, or other electrical assets, the power company will likely handle the clearance work, especially if it involves high-voltage lines.

What power companies manage

Utility companies are responsible for:

• High-voltage and low-voltage lines that run along streets and through easements
• Scheduled vegetation maintenance to prevent outages or fires
• Emergency response when storm damage or fallen branches pose a hazard

They work to a code of practice and operate under strict safety requirements. Most trimming is planned and done in cycles, but urgent hazards are dealt with quickly.

When to contact council

If you’ve noticed an overgrown tree on a street verge or public reserve, start with your local council. Councils are often responsible for trees growing on public land, and they can inspect the site or refer the issue to the relevant provider if needed.

How to identify your electricity distributor

If you’re dealing with a tree on or near power infrastructure, you’ll likely need to speak to your distributor, not the electricity retailer who sends your bill.

To find out who your distributor is, check the back of your latest electricity bill. It should list the company responsible for maintaining the power infrastructure on your street.

You can also use the Energy Safe Victoria distributor lookup tool to search by address.

This is the number to call if a tree has fallen on a line, a branch looks risky, or the power’s out. Having the right contact from the start can save you time and prevent hazards.

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What to do if a tree falls on powerlines

First things first: stay well clear. Even if the line looks stable, treat it as live.

If a tree has fallen onto a powerline or even if it’s just touching, don’t try to move it. Call your electricity distributor using the emergency number listed on your power bill. You can also check outage maps or, in serious cases, contact emergency services.

Trying to deal with it yourself is never safe. There’s a serious risk of electric shock, fire, or even worse.

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Who can legally trim trees near powerlines?

Trimming trees near live powerlines isn’t something you should tackle yourself. Only arborists who are licensed for electric line clearance are allowed to carry out this kind of work.

Attempting it yourself is not just dangerous, it’s illegal. Professionals are trained to assess risk, follow safe procedures, and use the right equipment for the job.

Hiring a qualified tree trimmer means the work will be done safely, legally, and to the proper standard. It also keeps you protected in case anything goes wrong.

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How often should trees be trimmed near powerlines?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s what we recommend. How often you trim depends on the type of tree, how fast it grows, and where you live.

In areas with high fire danger, or if you’ve got fast-growing species, you may need to trim more regularly. As a general guide, yearly inspections can help catch problems early.

It’s best not to wait until those branches are brushing the wires. A proactive trim is always safer than a rushed emergency callout.

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Need help managing trees near your service wires?

At Trav’s Tree Services, we’re fully qualified and insured to handle electric service line clearance work safely and legally. We’ve got years of experience working with homeowners, councils, and utility providers across Victoria.

We understand the safety rules, local council regulations, and the practical know-how to get it done right — whether it’s in your backyard, along the fence line, or out the front of your shop.

Get in touch with our team here to book a quote or ask a question.

Common questions about responsibility and trimming near powerlines

Can I hire any tree trimming service to cut near powerlines?

No — only arborists who hold electric line clearance qualifications are allowed to trim or remove trees near powerlines. Make sure your tree trimming service is licensed and trained for this kind of work to stay safe and compliant.

Is annual tree maintenance enough for safety?

For many properties, yes. Annual inspections and pruning can prevent vegetation from encroaching too close to the lines. In fast-growing or high-risk areas, you might need more frequent checks. It’s all about staying ahead of the hazard.

How do I notify the council or power company about a concern?

Start by identifying the location and type of hazard, for example, a tree on public land growing into the powerlines, or a branch fallen across a service wire. If the issue is on a street verge or public reserve, contact your local council. For urgent issues involving fallen trees or power outages, contact your electricity distributor directly. Your latest power bill will list the emergency number. You can also find contact details using the Energy Safe Victoria distributor lookup tool.

We’ve written a guide on how to report trees interfering with powerlines. Check it out.

Does Trav’s offer comprehensive vegetation management?

Yes. We offer a full range of professional tree services designed to keep vegetation safe and compliant near service wires. Our team handles everything from tree pruning to tree removal, as well as planting and ongoing maintenance for long-term safety planning.

We also provide detailed arborist reports and hazard assessments to support council applications or property planning. Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or managing a local park, we offer tailored solutions that meet both safety regulations and environmental needs.

What are the safety guidelines for working near powerlines?

Victoria has strict codes for electrical line work, and for good reason. Only qualified personnel are allowed to work within prescribed distances from powerlines. Never attempt it yourself — it’s both dangerous and illegal.

What happens if you ignore a notice about tree clearance?

Ignoring a formal notice from your electricity provider or council can lead to fines, electricity disruption or legal action. In many cases, they’ll arrange the work and pass the cost on to you. It’s much cheaper and safer to act early.

Can rules differ between states and territories?

Yes. While the risks are the same, regulations can vary across Australia. This guide covers Victoria specifically. If you're in another state or territory, check with your local government or utility provider for accurate advice.