Tree Touching a Power Line? Who to Call and What to Do

Safety first

If a branch is touching a line and you see sparks, smoke or arcing, or a line is down, stay at least 8 metres away and call the network's emergency number: Ausgrid 13 13 88 or Endeavour Energy 131 003. Never try to remove a branch from a power line yourself.

Is it a network line or your line?

• Street mains and network service lines: the network manages vegetation clearance on its own lines.
• Private lines on your property: keeping trees clear is the owner's responsibility, and networks can issue defect notices for vegetation.

Getting the tree cleared safely

Arborists need the line made safe before working near it. We disconnect your service so the tree can be cut back or removed, then reconnect once they're done. See disconnection for tree work.

Stop it happening again

If trees keep growing into your service, consider moving it underground. See overhead to underground conversion.

Frequently asked questions

Can my arborist work near the line without a disconnection?

Only within strict safe approach distances and with appropriate qualifications. In most residential jobs, disconnecting the service is the safest and simplest option.

Who pays to trim trees near the service line?

For private lines, the property owner. For network lines, the network manages its clearance program.