Victorians who are finally getting back into their gardens after a wet spring are being urged to prioritise safety and check that trees and branches are well clear of any powerlines connected to their homes. The reminder comes as Energy Safe Victoria reports dozens of avoidable pruning-related incidents across 2024 and 2025.
The energy safety regulator has recorded more than 40 incidents in the past two years involving vegetation growing too close to home service lines, many of which could have been prevented with basic checks before pruning or planting.
Recent heavy rainfall has also driven rapid growth, meaning branches that were safely away from powerlines in winter may now be edging dangerously close. Even small contact with a live wire can cause a fire, serious injury or a power outage, and the risks increase as Victoria approaches the summer bushfire season.
Energy Safe Victoria chief executive Leanne Hughson says safety should be front of mind for households tackling overgrown gardens after months of wet weather.
“Spring’s wet weather has meant many people are only just getting back into their gardens, but it also means vegetation has had months to grow unchecked,” she says.
“Take a moment to make sure your trees and branches are clear of power and service lines. Also, think ahead before planting anything new so it doesn’t become a hazard later on, especially as we move into fire season.”
Energy Safe Victoria is encouraging householders to:
- Check that trees and branches on their property are well clear of overhead powerlines and the home’s service line, particularly after recent growth
- Plant only low-growing species under or near powerlines
- Stay well clear of service lines when trimming trees and consider hiring a qualified professional for any work close to electrical infrastructure
- Contact their local electricity distributor for advice if they are unsure about clearance distances.
“We want people to enjoy refreshing their gardens, but to also stay safe while doing it. If a tree is too close to an electrical line, don’t take the risk – get a professional. A simple check now can prevent injuries, fires and power disruptions as the weather heats up,” Leanna says. Home gardeners are also being reminded of Victoria’s No Go Zone rules for working near powerlines. Under the Electricity Safety (General) Regulations 2019, only trained and authorised workers can prune vegetation within defined limits around electrical lines.
