{"id":"sr:electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025","name":"Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025","slug":"electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025","collection":"regulation","jurisdiction":"vic","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":null,"makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":184221,"registerId":"vic-sr:electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-05","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025","content":"Version No. 001\n\n**Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025**\n\n**S.R. No. 40/2025**\n\nVersion as at  \n26 June 2025\n\n**TABLE OF PROVISIONS**\n\n*Regulation Page*\n\nPart 1—Preliminary 1\n\n1 Objectives 1\n\n2 Authorising provisions 2\n\n3 Commencement 2\n\n4 Revocation 2\n\n5 Definitions 2\n\n6 Meaning of *tree for which a person has clearance responsibilities* 3\n\nPart 2—Prescribed Code of Practice and related provisions 4\n\n7 Prescribed Code of Practice 4\n\n8 Prescribed penalty provisions 4\n\n9 Preparation and submission of management plans 4\n\n10 Obligations relating to management plans 8\n\n11 Exemptions 9\n\n12 Offences for which infringement notices may be served 9\n\nPart 3—Consequential amendment 10\n\n13 Consequential amendment of the Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2023 10\n\nPart 4—Revocation 11\n\n14 Revocation of these Regulations 11\n\nSchedule 1—Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance 12\n\nPart 1—Preliminary 12\n\n1 Definitions 12\n\n2 Meaning of *minimum clearance space* 16\n\nPart 2—Clearance responsibilities 16\n\nDivision 1—Roles of responsible persons 16\n\n3 Responsible person must keep minimum clearance space clear of trees 16\n\n4 Exception to minimum clearance space for structural branches around insulated low voltage electric lines 17\n\n5 Exception to minimum clearance space for small branches around insulated low voltage electric lines 18\n\n6 Exception to minimum clearance space for small branches growing under uninsulated low voltage electric lines in low bushfire risk areas 19\n\n7 Exception to minimum clearance space for structural branches around uninsulated low voltage electric lines in low bushfire risk areas 21\n\n8 Owner or operator of transmission line must manage trees around minimum clearance space 23\n\n9 Responsible person may cut or remove hazard tree 23\n\nDivision 2—Manner of cutting and removing trees 24\n\n10 Cutting of tree to comply with Standard 24\n\n11 Cutting or removal of indigenous or significant trees must be minimised 24\n\n12 Cutting or removing habitat for threatened fauna 25\n\n13 Restriction on timing of cutting or removal if notification is required 25\n\n14 Restriction on urgent cutting of trees 26\n\n15 Restriction on urgent removal of trees 27\n\nDivision 3—Notification, consultation and dispute resolution 27\n\n16 Responsible person must provide notification before cutting or removing certain trees 27\n\n17 Responsible person must publish notice before cutting or removing certain trees 30\n\n18 Responsible person must consult with occupier or owner of private property before cutting or removing certain trees 31\n\n19 Notification and record keeping requirements for urgent cutting or removal 32\n\nDivision 4—Additional duties of responsible persons 34\n\n20 Duty relating to the safety of cutting or removal of trees close to an electric line 34\n\n21 Duty relating to assisting to determine the allowance for conductor sag and sway 34\n\n22 Duties relating to management procedures to minimise danger 35\n\nPart 3—Minimum clearance spaces 36\n\nDivision 1—Standard minimum clearance spaces 36\n\n23 Additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway 36\n\n24 Insulated electric lines in all areas 36\n\n25 Uninsulated low voltage electric line in a low bushfire risk area 37\n\n26 Uninsulated high voltage electric line (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a low bushfire risk area 38\n\n27 Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric line in a low bushfire risk area 40\n\n28 Uninsulated low voltage and high voltage electric lines (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a hazardous bushfire risk area 41\n\n29 Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric lines in a hazardous bushfire risk area 42\n\n30 Transmission lines 43\n\nDivision 2—Alternative compliance mechanisms 45\n\n31 Application for approval of alternative compliance mechanism 45\n\n32 Formal safety assessment of alternative compliance mechanism 46\n\n33 Approval of alternative compliance mechanism 47\n\n34 Amendment of approval 48\n\n35 Suspension or revocation of approval 49\n\nSchedule 2—Applicable distance for middle two thirds of electric line span 51\n\n═════════════\n\nEndnotes 64\n\n1 General information 64\n\n2 Table of Amendments 66\n\n3 Explanatory details 67\n\n**Version No.** **001**\n\n**Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025**\n\n**S.R. No. 40/2025**\n\nVersion as at  \n26 June 2025\n\nPart 1—Preliminary\n\n\t1 Objectives\n\nThe objectives of these Regulations are—\n\n(a) to prescribe the Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance; and\n\n(b) to prescribe—\n\n(i) standards and practices to be adopted and observed in tree cutting or removal in the vicinity of electric lines and the keeping of the whole or any part of a tree clear of electric lines; and\n\n(ii) a standard and practices to protect the health of trees that require cutting in accordance with the Code; and\n\n(iii) a requirement that certain responsible persons prepare management procedures to minimise the danger of trees contacting electric lines and causing fire or electrocution; and\n\n(iv) other matters for or with respect to the maintenance of electric lines; and\n\n(c) to provide for management plans relating to compliance with the Code; and\n\n(d) to provide for other matters authorised under the **Electricity Safety Act 1998** relating to electric line clearance; and\n\n(e) to make consequential amendment of the Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2023.\n\n\t2 Authorising provisions\n\nThese Regulations are made under sections 151, 151A and 157 of the **Electricity Safety Act 1998**.\n\n\t3 Commencement\n\nThese Regulations come into operation on 26 June 2025.\n\n\t4 Revocation\n\nThe Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2020[[1]](#endnote-1) are **revoked**.\n\n\t5 Definitions\n\nIn these Regulations—\n\n***approval for an alternative compliance mechanism*** means an approval granted by Energy Safe Victoria under clause 33 of the Code;\n\n***AS***  ***4373*** means Australian Standard AS 4373, \"Pruning of amenity trees\", as published or amended from time to time;\n\n***cut***, in relation to a tree—\n\n(a) includes cutting a part of the tree; and\n\n(b) does not include removing the tree;\n\n***low bushfire risk area*** means an area that is not a hazardous bushfire risk area;\n\n**Note**\n\n***hazardous bushfire risk area*** is defined in section 3 of the Act.\n\n***remove***, in relation to a tree, means to remove the whole of a tree above ground level;\n\n***the Act*** means the **Electricity Safety Act 1998**;\n\n***threatened fauna*** means a taxon of fauna that is specified in the Threatened List;\n\n***Threatened List***  has the same meaning as in the **Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988**;\n\n***tree for which a person has clearance responsibilities*** has the meaning given in regulation 6;\n\n***tree of cultural or environmental significance*** means a tree that is—\n\n(a) included in the Victorian Heritage Register established under Division 1 of Part 3 of the **Heritage Act 2017**; or\n\n(b) included in the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register established under section 144 of the **Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006**; or\n\n(c) flora that is specified in the Threatened List; or\n\n(d) a habitat of threatened fauna.\n\n\t6 Meaning of *tree for which a person has clearance responsibilities*\n\nIf, under Subdivision 1 of Division 2 of Part 8 of the Act, a person is responsible for keeping the whole or any part of a tree clear of an electric line, that tree is a ***tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities***.\n\nPart 2—Prescribed Code of Practice and related provisions\n\n\t7 Prescribed Code of Practice\n\n(1) For the purposes of Part 8 of the Act, Schedules 1 and 2 are together prescribed as the Code.\n\n(2) In these Regulations, a reference to a numbered clause of the Code is taken to be a reference to the clause of Schedule 1 with that number.\n\n\t8 Prescribed penalty provisions\n\nFor the purposes of section 90 of the Act, clauses 3(1), 8, 14(2), 15(2), 16(2), 17(2), 18(2), 19(2), 20(2), 21(2) and 22(2) and (3) of the Code are each a prescribed provision of the Code.\n\n\t9 Preparation and submission of management plans\n\n(1) This regulation does not apply to a responsible person referred to in section 84A or 84B of the Act.\n\n(2) A responsible person that is not a major electricity company, before 31 March in each year, must prepare a management plan relating to compliance with the Code for the next financial year.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n**Note**\n\n***Major electricity company*** is defined in section 3 of the Act.\n\n(3) A responsible person that is a major electricity company, before 31 March 2026, must prepare and submit to Energy Safe Victoria for approval a management plan relating to compliance with the Code for the period from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2031.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n(4) A responsible person must ensure that a management plan prepared under subregulation (2) or (3) specifies the following—\n\n(a) the name, address and telephone number of the responsible person;\n\n(b) the name, position, address and telephone number of the individual who was responsible for the preparation of the management plan;\n\n(c) the name, position, address and telephone number of the persons who are responsible for carrying out the management plan;\n\n(d) the telephone number of a person who can be contacted in an emergency that requires clearance of a tree from an electric line that the responsible person is required to keep clear of trees;\n\n(e) the objectives of the management plan;\n\n(f) the land to which the management plan applies (as indicated on a map);\n\n(g) any hazardous bushfire risk areas and low bushfire risk areas in the land referred to in paragraph (f) (as indicated on the map);\n\n(h) each area that the responsible person knows contains a tree that the responsible person may need to cut or remove to ensure compliance with the Code and that is—\n\n(i) indigenous to Victoria; or\n\n(ii) listed in a planning scheme to be of ecological, historical or aesthetic significance; or\n\n(iii) a tree of cultural or environmental significance;\n\n(i) the means which the responsible person will use to identify a tree of a kind specified in paragraph (h)(i), (ii) or (iii);\n\n(j) the management procedures that the responsible person will adopt to ensure compliance with the Code, which—\n\n(i) must include details of the methods to be adopted for managing trees and maintaining a minimum clearance space as required by the Code; and\n\n(ii) for the purposes of determining a minimum clearance space in accordance with Division 1 of Part 3 of the Code—\n\n(A) must specify the method for determining an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway; and\n\n(B) may provide for different additional distances to be determined for different parts of an electric line span;\n\n**Note**\n\nClause 21(2) of the Code requires a distribution company or an owner or operator of a railway or tramway supply network that is consulted by a Council to assist the Council by determining an additional distance.\n\n(k) the procedures to be adopted if it is not practicable to comply with the requirements of AS 4373 while cutting a tree in accordance with the Code;\n\n**Note**\n\nClause 10 of the Code requires a responsible person to cut trees, as far as practicable, in accordance with AS 4373.\n\n(l) a description of each alternative compliance mechanism in respect of which the responsible person has applied, or proposes to apply, for approval under clause 31 of the Code;\n\n(m) the details of each approval for an alternative compliance mechanism that—\n\n(i) the responsible person holds; and\n\n(ii) is in effect;\n\n(n) a description of the measures that must be used to assess the performance of the responsible person under the management plan;\n\n(o) details of the audit processes that must be used to determine the responsible person's compliance with the Code;\n\n(p) the qualifications and experience that the responsible person must require of the persons who are to carry out the inspection, cutting or removal of trees in accordance with the Code and the Electricity Safety (General) Regulations 2019[[2]](#endnote-2);\n\n**Note**\n\nRegulation 616(2) of the Electricity Safety (General) Regulations 2019 sets out specific requirements for qualified persons carrying out vegetation management work.\n\n(q) notification and consultation procedures, including the form of the notice to be given in accordance with Division 3 of Part 2 of the Code;\n\n(r) a procedure for the independent resolution of disputes relating to electric line clearance;\n\n(s) if Energy Safe Victoria has granted an exemption under regulation 11 relating to a requirement of the Code, details of the exemption or a copy of the exemption.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n\t10 Obligations relating to management plans\n\n(1) This regulation applies in relation to the management plan that a responsible person is required to prepare under regulation 9.\n\n(2) The responsible person must provide a copy of the management plan to Energy Safe Victoria within 14 days after a written request from Energy Safe Victoria or such longer period as specified by Energy Safe Victoria in the written request.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n(3) The responsible person, if requested in writing to do so by Energy Safe Victoria, must provide further information or material in respect of the management plan within 14 days after the written request or such longer period as specified by Energy Safe Victoria in the written request.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n(4) The responsible person must amend the management plan if instructed to do so in writing by Energy Safe Victoria within 14 days after the written instruction or such longer period as specified by Energy Safe Victoria in the written instruction.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n(5) The responsible person must not contravene a requirement of the management plan if the management plan is approved by Energy Safe Victoria.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n(6) The responsible person must ensure that a copy of the current management plan is published on the responsible person's Internet site.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n\t11 Exemptions\n\n(1) Energy Safe Victoria may exempt a responsible person from any of the requirements of these Regulations subject to any conditions specified by Energy Safe Victoria.\n\n(2) A responsible person who is granted an exemption under this regulation must comply with the conditions (if any) of the exemption.\n\nPenalty: 20 penalty units.\n\n\t12 Offences for which infringement notices may be served\n\nFor the purposes of paragraph (b) of the definition of ***prescribed offence*** in section 140A of the Act, the following provisions are prescribed—\n\n(a) regulations 9(2), (3) and (4), 10(2), (3), (4), (5) and (6) and 11(2);\n\n(b) clause 3(1) of the Code.\n\n**Note**\n\nRegulation 8 prescribes clause 3(1) of the Code for the purposes of section 90 of the Act. Section 90 provides that a person who contravenes a prescribed provision of the Code commits an offence carrying a penalty of 100 penalty units in the case of a natural person and 500 penalty units in the case of a body corporate.\n\nPart 3—Consequential amendment\n\n\t13 Consequential amendment of the Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2023\n\nIn the note at the foot of regulation 11(1)(n) of the Electricity Safety (Bushfire Mitigation) Regulations 2023[[3]](#endnote-3), for \"Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2020\" **substitute** \"Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025\".\n\nPart 4—Revocation\n\n\t14 Revocation of these Regulations\n\nThese Regulations are **revoked** on 25 June 2026.\n\nSchedule 1—Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance\n\nRegulation 7\n\nPart 1—Preliminary\n\n\t1 Definitions\n\nIn this Code—\n\n***aerial bundled cable*** means an insulated conductor manufactured in accordance with the specifications set out in any of the following—\n\n(a) AS/NZS 3560.1 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(b) AS/NZS 3560.2 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(c) AS/NZS 3599.1 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(d) AS/NZS 3599.2 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n***conductor spreader*** means an insulated rod used to maintain distance between uninsulated conductors of an aerial low voltage electric line;\n\n***covered conductor*** means an insulated conductor manufactured in accordance with the specifications set out in AS/NZS 3675 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n***electric cable*** means an insulated conductor manufactured in accordance with—\n\n(a) the specifications set out in AS/NZS 1429.1 as published or amended from time to time; or\n\n(b) the specifications set out in AS/NZS 1429.2 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n***electric line span*** means the section of the electric line between 2 adjacent supporting structures;\n\n***extra low voltage*** means a voltage not exceeding—\n\n(a) 50 volts alternating current; or\n\n(b) 120 volts ripple-free direct current;\n\n***insulated cable*** means a conductor insulated by a medium other than air and includes any of the following—\n\n(a) aerial bundled cable;\n\n(b) covered conductor;\n\n(c) electric cable;\n\n(d) a conductor to which an insulating cover has been applied;\n\n***insulating cover*** means an insulating pipe or tube that is—\n\n(a) applied to a conductor to provide a protective barrier; and\n\n(b) manufactured in accordance with the specifications set out in any of the following—\n\n(i) AS IEC 60060.1 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(ii) AS IEC 60060.2 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(iii) AS 4202 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(iv) AS/NZS 3100 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n(v) AS/NZS 3121 as published or amended from time to time;\n\n***low voltage*** means a voltage exceeding extra low voltage but not exceeding—\n\n(a) 1000 volts alternating current; or\n\n(b) 1500 volts direct current;\n\n***minimum clearance space*** has the meaning set out in clause 2;\n\n***nominal voltage*** means the voltage at which the electric line is designed to operate;\n\n***published technical standard*** means a document giving technical information, guidance or advice published by—\n\n(a) Standards Australia; or\n\n(b) Standards New Zealand; or\n\n(c) the British Standards Institution; or\n\n(d) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or\n\n(e) the International Electrotechnical Commission; or\n\n(f) any similar standards organisation within or outside Australia approved by Energy Safe Victoria; or\n\n(g) Energy Safe Victoria;\n\n***railway supply network*** means the supply network of a railway;\n\n**Note**\n\n***Railway*** and ***supply network*** are defined in section 3 of the Act.\n\n***sag***, in relation to a conductor, means the vertical displacement of the conductor below the point at which the conductor is attached to the supporting structure and includes any additional displacement caused by hot weather or high load current;\n\n***span distance*** means the distance between the points at which an electric line span is attached to the 2 adjacent supporting structures;\n\n***suitably qualified arborist*** means an arborist who has—\n\n(a) as a minimum, the qualification of National Certificate III in Arboriculture including the \"Perform a ground-based tree defect evaluation\" unit of competency, or an equivalent qualification; and\n\n(b) at least 3 years of field experience in assessing trees;\n\n***sway***, in relation to a conductor, means the horizontal displacement of the conductor caused by wind;\n\n***tramway supply network*** means the supply network of a railway that is a light railway or tramway;\n\n***transmission line*** means an electric line—\n\n(a) with a nominal voltage of more than 66 000 volts; or\n\n(b) operating at 66 000 volts that is supported on tower structures; or\n\n(c) operating at 66 000 volts that is adjacent to an electric line that has a nominal voltage greater than 66 000 volts;\n\n***uninsulated cable*** means a conductor that is not an insulated cable.\n\n\t2 Meaning of *minimum clearance space*\n\n(1) Except as otherwise provided by this clause, the ***minimum clearance space*** for an electric line span is the minimum clearance space for the span as determined under Part 3.\n\n(2) For the purposes of the application of this Code to a responsible person who holds an approval for an alternative compliance mechanism that is in effect—\n\n(a) if the approval applies to a particular electric line span—the ***minimum clearance*** ***space*** for that span is the minimum clearance space specified in the approval under clause 33(3)(d)(i); or\n\n(b) if the approval applies to a class of electric line span—the ***minimum clearance space*** for each span that belongs to that class is the minimum clearance space specified in the approval under clause 33(3)(d)(i).\n\nPart 2—Clearance responsibilities\n\nDivision 1—Roles of responsible persons\n\n\t3 Responsible person must keep minimum clearance space clear of trees\n\n(1) A responsible person must ensure that, at all times, no part of a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities is within the minimum clearance space for an electric line span.\n\n(2) Subclause (1) is subject to clauses 4, 5, 6 and 7.\n\n**Note**\n\nClauses 4, 5, 6 and 7 provide that certain responsible persons are not required to ensure that certain branches are clear of the minimum clearance space for spans of certain electric lines.\n\n\t4 Exception to minimum clearance space for structural branches around insulated low voltage electric lines\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) The responsible person is not required to ensure that a particular branch of a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities is clear of the minimum clearance space for an electric line span if—\n\n(a) the electric line is—\n\n(i) an insulated cable; and\n\n(ii) a low voltage electric line; and\n\n(b) the branch is wider than 130 millimetres at the point at which it enters the minimum clearance space; and\n\n(c) in the case of a span distance of 40 metres or less, the branch is more than 150 millimetres from the line; and\n\n(d) in the case of a span distance greater than 40 metres, the branch is more than 300 millimetres from the line; and\n\n(e) within the last 14 months—\n\n(i) a suitably qualified arborist has inspected the tree of which the branch is a part; and\n\n(ii) the arborist has advised the responsible person that the tree of which the branch is a part does not have any visible structural defect that could cause the branch to fail and make contact with the electric line; and\n\n(iii) the responsible person has completed an assessment of the risks posed by the branch; and\n\n(iv) the responsible person has implemented measures to effectively mitigate the identified risks.\n\n(3) A responsible person who leaves a branch within the minimum clearance space for an electric line span in accordance with subclause (2) must keep records of the following matters for 5 years—\n\n(a) each inspection referred to in subclause (2)(e)(i);\n\n(b) all advice referred to in subclause (2)(e)(ii);\n\n(c) each assessment referred to in subclause (2)(e)(iii);\n\n(d) all measures referred to in subclause (2)(e)(iv).\n\n\t5 Exception to minimum clearance space for small branches around insulated low voltage electric lines\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) The responsible person is not required to ensure that a particular branch of a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities is clear of the minimum clearance space for an electric line span if—\n\n(a) the electric line is—\n\n(i) an insulated cable; and\n\n(ii) a low voltage electric line; and\n\n(b) the branch is less than 10 millimetres wide at the point at which it enters the minimum clearance space; and\n\n(c) the branch has been removed from the minimum clearance space within the last 12 months.\n\n\t6 Exception to minimum clearance space for small branches growing under uninsulated low voltage electric lines in low bushfire risk areas\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) The responsible person is not required to ensure that a particular branch of a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities is clear of the minimum clearance space for an electric line span if—\n\n(a) the electric line is—\n\n(i) an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(ii) a low voltage electric line; and\n\n(iii) located in a low bushfire risk area; and\n\n(b) the branch is less than 10 millimetres wide at the point at which it enters the minimum clearance space and is no more than 500 millimetres inside the minimum clearance space; and\n\n(c) the point at which the branch originates is below the height of the electric line; and\n\n(d) in the case of a branch that comes within the minimum clearance space around the middle two thirds of the span, the span is fitted with—\n\n(i) one conductor spreader if the length of the span does not exceed 45 metres; or\n\n(ii) 2 conductor spreaders if the length of the span exceeds 45 metres; and\n\n**Note**\n\nA spreader is not required to be fitted to the span if the branch comes within the minimum clearance space around the first or last sixth of the span.\n\n(e) within the last 14 months—\n\n(i) a suitably qualified arborist has inspected the tree of which the branch is a part; and\n\n(ii) the responsible person has completed an assessment of the risks posed by the branch; and\n\n(iii) the responsible person has implemented measures to effectively mitigate the identified risks.\n\n(3) A responsible person who leaves a branch within the minimum clearance space for an electric line span in accordance with subclause (2) must keep records of the following matters for 5 years—\n\n(a) each inspection referred to in subclause (2)(e)(i);\n\n(b) each assessment referred to in subclause (2)(e)(ii);\n\n(c) all measures referred to in subclause (2)(e)(iii).\n\n\t7 Exception to minimum clearance space for structural branches around uninsulated low voltage electric lines in low bushfire risk areas\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) The responsible person is not required to ensure that a particular branch of a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities is clear of the minimum clearance space for an electric line span if—\n\n(a) the electric line is—\n\n(i) an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(ii) a low voltage electric line; and\n\n(iii) located in a low bushfire risk area; and\n\n(b) in the case of a branch that comes within the minimum clearance space around the middle two thirds of the span, the span is fitted with—\n\n(i) one conductor spreader if the length of the span does not exceed 45 metres; or\n\n(ii) 2 conductor spreaders if the length of the span exceeds 45 metres; and\n\n**Note**\n\nA spreader is not required to be fitted to the span if the branch comes within the minimum clearance space around the first or last sixth of the span.\n\n(c) the branch is more than 130 millimetres wide at the point at which it enters the clearance space; and\n\n(d) the branch is no more than 500 millimetres inside the minimum clearance space; and\n\n(e) within the last 14 months—\n\n(i) a suitably qualified arborist has inspected the tree of which the branch is a part; and\n\n(ii) the arborist has advised the responsible person that the tree of which the branch is a part does not have any visible structural defect that could cause the branch to fall and make contact with the electric line; and\n\n(iii) the responsible person has completed an assessment of the risks posed by the branch; and\n\n(iv) the responsible person has implemented measures to effectively mitigate the identified risks.\n\n(3) A responsible person who leaves a branch within the minimum clearance space for an electric line span in accordance with subclause (2) must keep records of the following matters for 5 years—\n\n(a) each inspection referred to in subclause (2)(e)(i);\n\n(b) all advice referred to in subclause (2)(e)(ii);\n\n(c) each assessment referred to in subclause (2)(e)(iii);\n\n(d) all measures referred to in subclause (2)(e)(iv).\n\n\t8 Owner or operator of transmission line must manage trees around minimum clearance space\n\nA responsible person who owns or operates a transmission line must—\n\n(a) manage trees below the transmission line to mitigate, as far as practicable, the fire risks associated with the fuel load below the transmission line; and\n\n(b) manage trees adjacent to the transmission line to avoid, as far as practicable, a tree entering the minimum clearance space around that line if the tree falls.\n\n\t9 Responsible person may cut or remove hazard tree\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) The responsible person may cut or remove a tree for which the person has clearance responsibilities if a suitably qualified arborist has—\n\n(a) assessed the tree having regard to foreseeable local conditions; and\n\n(b) advised the responsible person that the tree, or any part of the tree, is likely to fall onto or otherwise come into contact with an electric line.\n\n**Note**\n\nUnder section 86B of the Act a Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee, in a municipal emergency management plan, must specify procedures and criteria for the identification of trees that are likely to fall onto, or come into contact with, an electric line, and procedures for the notification of responsible persons of trees that are hazard trees in relation to electric lines for which they are responsible.\n\n(3) For the purposes of this clause it is irrelevant that the tree is not within, and is not likely to grow into, the minimum clearance space for an electric line span.\n\nDivision 2—Manner of cutting and removing trees\n\n\t10 Cutting of tree to comply with Standard\n\nA responsible person cutting a tree under  Division 1 must, as far as practicable, cut the tree  in accordance with AS 4373 as published or  amended from time to time.\n\n\t11 Cutting or removal of indigenous or significant trees must be minimised\n\n(1) A responsible person cutting, under Division 1, a tree of a kind specified in subclause (3), as far as is practicable, must not cut the tree more than is necessary to either—\n\n(a) ensure compliance with Division 1; or\n\n(b) make an unsafe situation safe.\n\n(2) A responsible person must not remove, under Division 1, a tree of a kind specified in subclause (3) unless—\n\n(a) it is necessary to remove the tree to either—\n\n(i) ensure compliance with Division 1; or\n\n(ii) make an unsafe situation safe; or\n\n(b) a suitably qualified arborist has—\n\n(i) inspected the tree; and\n\n(ii) advised the responsible person that cutting the tree in accordance with subclause (1) would make the tree unhealthy or unviable.\n\n(3) The following kinds of tree are specified for the purposes of subclauses (1) and (2)—\n\n(a) trees that are indigenous to Victoria;\n\n(b) trees listed in a planning scheme to be of ecological, historical or aesthetic significance;\n\n(c) trees of cultural or environmental significance.\n\n\t12 Cutting or removing habitat for threatened fauna\n\n(1) A responsible person must not cut or remove a tree that is the habitat for threatened fauna during the breeding season for the threatened fauna unless—\n\n(a) it is necessary to cut or remove the tree to make an unsafe situation safe; or\n\n(b) it is not practicable to undertake cutting or removal of that tree outside the breeding season.\n\n(2) If it is not practicable to undertake cutting or removal of that tree outside the breeding season, the responsible person must translocate the fauna before undertaking the cutting or removal if it is practicable to do so.\n\n\t13 Restriction on timing of cutting or removal if notification is required\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person who—\n\n(a) gives notice under clause 16(2) about the intended cutting or removal of a tree; or\n\n(b) publishes a notice under clause 17(2) about the intended cutting or removal of a tree.\n\n(2) The responsible person must not commence cutting or removal of the tree on a day that is earlier than the first day that is specified, or before the first day of the period that is specified, in the notice under clause 16(6) or 17(4)(b) (as the case requires).\n\n\t14 Restriction on urgent cutting of trees\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act who is required to comply with clause 19(2) in relation to cutting that is required—\n\n(a) as a result of encroachment or growth of trees that was not anticipated in the management plan; or\n\n(b) during the fire danger period declared under the **Country Fire Authority Act 1958**.\n\n**Note**\n\nA responsible person is required to comply with clause 19(2) in relation to the cutting of a tree if the responsible person is referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act and the cutting is urgently required for a reason set out in clause 19(1). In these circumstances, clauses 16(2), 17(2) and 18(2) do not require the giving or publication of a written notice, or the undertaking of consultation, before the cutting.\n\n(2) The responsible person must not cut a tree further than one metre from the minimum clearance space for an electric line span.\n\n\t15 Restriction on urgent removal of trees\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act who is required to comply with clause 19(2) in relation to a tree.\n\n**Note**\n\nA responsible person is required to comply with clause 19(2) in relation to a tree if the responsible person is referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act and the cutting or removal of the tree is urgently required for a reason set out in clause 19(1). In these circumstances, clauses 16(2), 17(2) and 18(2) do not require the giving or publication of a written notice, or the undertaking of consultation, before the cutting or removal.\n\n(2) The responsible person must not remove the tree unless—\n\n(a) the tree has fallen or has become damaged and is to be removed to keep the minimum clearance space for an electric line span free of trees; or\n\n(b) a suitably qualified arborist has—\n\n(i) assessed the tree having regard to foreseeable local conditions; and\n\n(ii) advised the responsible person that the tree is likely to imminently fall onto or otherwise come into contact with an electric line.\n\nDivision 3—Notification, consultation and dispute resolution\n\n\t16 Responsible person must provide notification before cutting or removing certain trees\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person who is required by clause 3 or 8, or who intends under clause 9, to cut or remove a tree that is—\n\n(a) on private property that the responsible person neither owns nor occupies; or\n\n(b) on public land; or\n\n(c) a tree of cultural or environmental significance; or\n\n(d) listed in a planning scheme to be of ecological, historical or aesthetic significance.\n\n(2) The responsible person must give a written notice in accordance with this clause before cutting or removing the tree unless—\n\n(a) the responsible person is a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act; and\n\n(b) the cutting or removal is urgently required for a reason set out in clause 19(1).\n\n**Note**\n\nSection 8 of the **Electronic Transactions (Victoria) Act 2000** provides that a requirement to give information in writing can be met by means of an electronic communication.\n\n(3) A written notice given under subclause (2) must be given to—\n\n(a) if the tree is within the boundary of private property—an owner or occupier of the property; or\n\n(b) if the tree is on land that is managed by a Council that is not the responsible person—that Council; or\n\n(c) if the tree is on land that is contiguous to private property and the use of that property may be affected during the cutting or removal—an owner or occupier of that property.\n\n(4) A written notice given under subclause (2) must include the following information—\n\n(a) the contact details of the responsible person, including the contact details for all enquiries regarding vegetation and the intended cutting or removal;\n\n(b) details of the intended cutting or removal;\n\n(c) advice that the responsible person has procedures for resolving disputes and details on how to obtain access to the procedures.\n\n(5) A written notice given under subclause (2) must include the following additional information—\n\n(a) if the notice is given to an owner or occupier of private property in accordance with subclause (3)(a)—\n\n(i) details of the consultation procedure that the responsible person will follow; and\n\n(ii) details of whether the tree to be cut or removed is—\n\n(A) a tree of cultural or environmental significance; or\n\n(B) listed in a planning scheme to be of ecological, historical or aesthetic significance; and\n\n(iii) if the tree is intended to be cut, a diagram that shows—\n\n(A) the tree and where the electric line is in relation to the tree; and\n\n(B) where the tree will be cut;\n\n(b) if the notice is given to a Council in accordance with subclause (3)(b)—details of whether the tree to be cut or removed is—\n\n(i) on public land; or\n\n(ii) a tree of cultural or environmental significance; or\n\n(iii) listed in a planning scheme to be of ecological, historical or aesthetic significance;\n\n(c) if the notice is given to an owner or occupier of private property in accordance with subclause (3)(c)—details of the impact that the intended cutting or removal may have on the affected person's use of their land during the cutting or removal.\n\n(6) A written notice given under subclause (2) must specify one or more days on which, or a period during which, the responsible person intends that the intended cutting or removal will commence.\n\n**Note**\n\nClause 13 provides that if a responsible person gives written notice under this clause, the person must not commence cutting or removal of the tree other than on a day or a period specified under subclause (6).\n\n(7) The responsible person must not specify, under subclause (6), a day that is, or a period the first day of which is—\n\n(a) earlier than 14 days from the date of the notice; or\n\n(b) later than 60 days from the date of the notice.\n\n\t17 Responsible person must publish notice before cutting or removing certain trees\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person who is required by clause 3 or 8 to cut or remove a tree that is on public land that is not privately owned.\n\n(2) The responsible person must publish a written notice in accordance with this clause before cutting or removing the tree unless—\n\n(a) the responsible person is a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act; and\n\n(b) the cutting or removal is urgently required for a reason set out in clause 19(1).\n\n(3) A written notice published under subclause (2) must be published on the responsible person's Internet site or in a newspaper circulating generally in the locality of the land in which the tree is to be cut or removed.\n\n(4) A written notice published under subclause (2) must—\n\n(a) describe the cutting or removal that the responsible person intends to undertake; and\n\n(b) specify one or more days on which, or a period during which, the responsible person intends that the intended cutting or removal will commence.\n\n**Note**\n\nClause 13 provides that if a responsible person publishes a notice under this clause, the person must not cut or remove the tree other than on a day or period specified under subclause (4)(b).\n\n(5) The responsible person must not specify, under subclause (4)(b), a day that is, or a period the first day of which is—\n\n(a) earlier than 14 days after the date of the notice; or\n\n(b) later than 60 days after the date of the notice.\n\n\t18 Responsible person must consult with occupier or owner of private property before cutting or removing certain trees\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person who is required by clause 3 or 8, or who intends under clause 9, to cut or remove a tree that is within the boundary of a private property which the responsible person neither occupies nor owns.\n\n(2) The responsible person must consult as required by subclause (3) before cutting or removing the tree unless—\n\n(a) the responsible person is a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act; and\n\n(b) the cutting or removal is urgently required for a reason set out in clause 19(1).\n\n(3) For the purposes of subclause (2), the responsible person must consult—\n\n(a) if the tree is to be cut within the boundary of private property—an occupier of the property; or\n\n(b) if the tree is to be removed—an owner of the property.\n\n\t19 Notification and record keeping requirements for urgent cutting or removal\n\n(1) This clause applies if a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act undertakes any cutting or removal that is urgently required—\n\n(a) as a result of encroachment or growth of trees that was not anticipated in the management plan; or\n\n(b) as a result of a tree falling or becoming damaged so that it is required to be cut or removed to maintain the minimum clearance space; or\n\n(c) because a suitably qualified arborist has—\n\n(i) assessed the tree having regard to foreseeable local conditions; and\n\n(ii) advised the responsible person that the tree, or any part of the tree, is likely to imminently fall onto or otherwise come into contact with an electric line; or\n\n(d) during the fire danger period declared under the **Country Fire Authority Act 1958**.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 Clause 14 restricts the urgent cutting referred to in subclause (1)(a) and (d).\n\n2 Clause 15 restricts the urgent removal referred to in subclause (1)(b) and (c).\n\n(2) The responsible person, as soon as practicable after completing the cutting or removal, must give written notice of that cutting or removal to—\n\n(a) if the tree that was cut or removed was within the boundary of private property—an owner or occupier of the property; or\n\n(b) if the tree that was cut or removed was on land that is managed by a Council and not by the responsible person—the Council.\n\n(3) A written notice given under subclause (2) must specify—\n\n(a) where and when the cutting or removal was undertaken; and\n\n(b) why the cutting or removal was required; and\n\n(c) the date of the last inspection of the span of the electric line in relation to which the cutting or removal was required before it was identified that the urgent cutting or removal was required.\n\n(4) The responsible person must keep a record of a written notice given under subclause (2) for at least 5 years.\n\nDivision 4—Additional duties of responsible persons\n\n\t20 Duty relating to the safety of cutting or removal of trees close to an electric line\n\n(1) If a Council has concerns about the safety of cutting or removal of a tree for which the Council has clearance responsibilities, the Council may consult—\n\n(a) if the Council's concerns relate to an electric line span that is part of a railway supply network or tramway supply network—the owner or operator of that supply network; or\n\n(b) in any other case—the distribution company in whose distribution area the electric line is located.\n\n(2) An owner, operator or distribution company that is consulted by a Council under subclause (1) must provide advice to the Council on—\n\n(a) safe limits of approach to electric lines for cutting or removing the tree; and\n\n(b) safe methods for cutting or removing the tree.\n\n\t21 Duty relating to assisting to determine the allowance for conductor sag and sway\n\n(1) If a Council considers that, for the purposes of determining a minimum clearance space in accordance with Division 1 of Part 3, the Council requires assistance to determine an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway, the Council may consult—\n\n(a) if the Council requires assistance in relation to an electric line span that is part of a railway supply network or tramway supply network—the owner or operator of that supply network; or\n\n(b) in any other case—the distribution company in whose distribution area the electric line is located.\n\n(2) An owner, operator or distribution company that is consulted by a Council under subclause (1) must assist the Council by determining the additional distance.\n\n(3) The Council must keep a record of the additional distance referred to in subclause (2) for at least 5 years.\n\n(4) An owner, operator or distribution company may determine different additional distances for different parts of an electric line span.\n\n\t22 Duties relating to management procedures to minimise danger\n\n(1) A distribution company must give advice about the following matters to each occupier of land above which there is a private electric line that is within the distribution company's distribution area—\n\n(a) the duties of the responsible person under this Code;\n\n(b) the dangers of cutting and removing trees;\n\n(c) the precautions that should be taken to safely maintain the line.\n\n(2) A distribution company must give advice under subclause (1) at least once every calendar year.\n\n(3) A distribution company must, on the request of a person who has clearance responsibilities for a tree within the distribution company's distribution area, advise that person—\n\n(a) how to identify places within that area where the cutting or removal of trees will be required; and\n\n(b) where to obtain advice and information on methods for maintaining clearance between electric lines and trees.\n\nPart 3—Minimum clearance spaces\n\nDivision 1—Standard minimum clearance spaces\n\n\t23 Additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway\n\nIn this Division, a reference to an ***additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway*** that is to be used in determining a minimum clearance space is a reference to—\n\n(a) if the minimum clearance space is to be determined in relation to a Council that sought assistance in determining the additional distance under clause 21—the additional distance specified in the record kept by the Council under clause 21(3); or\n\n(b) in any other case—the distance determined in accordance with the method specified, under regulation 9(4)(j)(ii)(A), in the management plan of the responsible person in relation to whom the minimum clearance space is to be determined.\n\n**Note**\n\nDifferent parts of an electric line span may have different additional distances—see regulation 9(4)(j)(ii)(B) and clause 21(4).\n\n\t24 Insulated electric lines in all areas\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that is an insulated cable.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for the applicable distance.\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 300 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 40 metres—300 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 40 metres and less than or equal to 100 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres—900 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 1 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 3 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t25 Uninsulated low voltage electric line in a low bushfire risk area\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that is—\n\n(a) an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(b) a low voltage electric line; and\n\n(c) located in a low bushfire risk area.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for—\n\n(a) the applicable distance; and\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres, an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway.\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 1000 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 45 metres—1000 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 45 metres and less than or equal to 100 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres—2500 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 2 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 4 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t26 Uninsulated high voltage electric line (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a low bushfire risk area\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that—\n\n(a) is an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(b) is a high voltage electric line; and\n\n(c) does not have a nominal voltage of 66 000 volts; and\n\n(d) is located in a low bushfire risk area.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for—\n\n(a) the applicable distance; and\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres, an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway.\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 1500 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 45 metres—1500 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 45 metres and less than or equal to 100 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres—2500 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 3 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 3 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t27 Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric line in a low bushfire risk area\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that—\n\n(a) is an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(b) is a high voltage electric line; and\n\n(c) has a nominal voltage of 66 000 volts; and\n\n(d) is located in a low bushfire risk area.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is—\n\n(a) the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for—\n\n(i) the applicable distance; and\n\n(ii) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres, an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway; and\n\n(b) the space above the space described in paragraph (a).\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 2250 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 45 metres—2250 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 45 metres and less than or equal to 100 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 100 metres—3500 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 4 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t28 Uninsulated low voltage and high voltage electric lines (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a hazardous bushfire risk area\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that—\n\n(a) is an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(b) does not have a nominal voltage of 66 000 volts; and\n\n(c) is located in a hazardous bushfire risk area.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is—\n\n(a) the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for the applicable distance and an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway; and\n\n(b) the space above the space described in paragraph (a).\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 1500 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 45 metres—1500 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 45 metres and less than or equal to 500 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 500 metres—2250 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 5 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t29 Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric lines in a hazardous bushfire risk area\n\n(1) This clause applies to an electric line that—\n\n(a) is an uninsulated cable; and\n\n(b) has a nominal voltage of 66 000 volts; and\n\n(c) is located in a hazardous bushfire risk area.\n\n(2) The minimum clearance space for a span of the electric line is—\n\n(a) the space extending away from the line in all directions perpendicular to its axis for the applicable distance and an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway; and\n\n(b) the space above the space described in paragraph (a).\n\n(3) The ***applicable distance*** for the first and last sixths of the span is 2250 millimetres.\n\n(4) The ***applicable distance*** for the middle two thirds of the span is—\n\n(a) if the span distance is less than or equal to 45 metres—2250 millimetres; or\n\n(b) if the span distance is greater than 45 metres and less than or equal to 350 metres—the distance calculated in accordance with the following expression—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance; or\n\n(c) if the span distance is greater than 350 metres—3000 millimetres.\n\n**Notes**\n\n1 The applicable distance for the middle two thirds of the span is represented as a graph in Graph 6 of Schedule 2.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this clause applies is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5 of Schedule 2.\n\n\t30 Transmission lines\n\n(1) The minimum clearance space for a span of a transmission line is—\n\n(a) the space that is bound by the horizontal limits determined in accordance with subclause (2) and that, between those limits, extends downward from the level of the line for the applicable vertical distance; and\n\n(b) the space above the space described in paragraph (a).\n\n(2) The horizontal limits of the minimum clearance space are reached by extending horizontally from the transmission line to the left and right of the line for the applicable horizontal distance.\n\n(3) For a transmission line of a nominal voltage that is specified in an item in Column 1 of the following table—\n\n(a) the applicable horizontal distance is the sum of—\n\n(i) the distance specified in Column 2 for that item; and\n\n(ii) an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway; and\n\n(b) the applicable vertical distance is the sum of—\n\n(i) the distance specified in Column 3 for that item; and\n\n(ii) an additional distance that allows for conductor sag and sway.\n\n| *Column 1*<br>*Nominal voltage* | *Column 2*<br>*Applicable horizontal distance (without allowance for sag and sway)* | *Column 3*<br>*Applicable vertical distance (without allowance for sag and sway)* |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| 66 kV | 3000 mm | 3000 mm |\n| More than 66 kV, but less than 220 kV | 4600 mm | 3700 mm |\n| 220 kV | 4600 mm | 3700 mm |\n| 275 kV | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |\n| 330 kV | 5500 mm | 4700 mm |\n| 500 kV | 6400 mm | 6400 mm |\n\n\n**Note**\n\nThis minimum clearance space is partially illustrated in Figures 6 and 7 of Schedule 2.\n\nDivision 2—Alternative compliance mechanisms\n\n\t31 Application for approval of alternative compliance mechanism\n\n(1) This clause applies to a responsible person referred to in section 84, 84C or 84D of the Act.\n\n(2) A responsible person may apply to Energy Safe Victoria for approval to use an alternative compliance mechanism in respect of an electric line span or a class of electric line spans.\n\n(3) The application must—\n\n(a) include details of—\n\n(i) the alternative compliance mechanism; and\n\n(ii) the procedures to be adopted for commissioning, installing, operating, maintaining and decommissioning the alternative compliance mechanism; and\n\n(b) identify the published technical standards that will be complied with when commissioning, installing, operating, maintaining and decommissioning the alternative compliance mechanism; and\n\n(c) either—\n\n(i) if the application is made in respect of an electric line span—specify the location of the span; or\n\n(ii) if the application is made in respect of a class of electric line span—describe the class; and\n\n(d) specify the minimum clearance space that the applicant proposes is to be applied in relation to the span, or class of spans, in respect of which the application is made; and\n\n(e) include a copy of the formal safety assessment prepared under clause 32.\n\n(4) The application must include a copy of the written agreement of—\n\n(a) if the application is made in respect of an electric line span and the responsible person does not own the span—the owner or the operator of the span; or\n\n(b) if the application is made in respect of a class of spans—the owner or the operator of each span that—\n\n(i) belongs to that class; and\n\n(ii) is not owned by the applicant.\n\n(5) The responsible person must, if requested to do so by Energy Safe Victoria, provide further information or material about the application.\n\n\t32 Formal safety assessment of alternative compliance mechanism\n\nA formal safety assessment must include—\n\n(a) a description of the methodology used and investigations undertaken for the formal safety assessment; and\n\n(b) an identification of hazards associated with the use of the alternative compliance mechanism having the potential to cause a serious electrical incident; and\n\n(c) a systematic assessment of the risks (including the likelihood and consequences of a serious electrical incident) associated with—\n\n(i) commissioning, installing, operating, maintaining and decommissioning the alternative compliance mechanism; and\n\n(ii) the safety of the span or class of spans to which the alternative compliance mechanism will apply; and\n\n(d) a description of technical and other measures undertaken or to be undertaken to reduce those risks as far as practicable.\n\n\t33 Approval of alternative compliance mechanism\n\n(1) Energy Safe Victoria may approve an application under clause 31 if satisfied that—\n\n(a) the application complies with clause 31; and\n\n(b) the details included in the application under clause 31(3)(a) are adequate; and\n\n(c) the application provides an adequate assessment of the risks referred to in clause 32(c); and\n\n(d) the application provides an appropriate set of measures to mitigate those risks.\n\n(2) The approval may be subject to any conditions that Energy Safe Victoria thinks fit, including conditions that—\n\n(a) the responsible person's communications with Energy Safe Victoria regarding the approval must be made in a specified manner; or\n\n(b) the responsible person must perform specified actions in relation to the alternative compliance mechanism; or\n\n(c) the responsible person must monitor the use of the alternative compliance mechanism in a specified manner; or\n\n(d) the responsible person must report to Energy Safe Victoria on the use of the alternative compliance mechanism in a specified manner.\n\n(3) The approval must—\n\n(a) be in writing; and\n\n(b) include any conditions to which the approval is subject; and\n\n(c) identify the span of an electric line, or describe the class of electric line span, to which the approval applies; and\n\n(d) specify—\n\n(i) the minimum clearance space that is to apply under the approval; and\n\n(ii) the period of time for which the approval has effect; and\n\n(iii) any acts or omissions that will constitute major non-compliance and result in the revocation of the approval.\n\n(4) Energy Safe Victoria must give a copy of the approval to the responsible person who made the application.\n\n(5) If Energy Safe Victoria refuses an application for approval of an alternative compliance mechanism, Energy Safe Victoria must—\n\n(a) give written notice of the decision to the responsible person who made the application; and\n\n(b) set out reasons for the decision.\n\n\t34 Amendment of approval\n\n(1) Energy Safe Victoria may amend an approval for an alternative compliance mechanism.\n\n(2) Without limiting subclause (1), an amendment under that subclause may—\n\n(a) amend or revoke a condition attached to the approval; or\n\n(b) impose a further condition on the approval.\n\n(3) On making an amendment under subclause (1), Energy Safe Victoria must give the responsible person a written notice specifying—\n\n(a) the amendment; and\n\n(b) the date from which the amendment has effect.\n\n\t35 Suspension or revocation of approval\n\n(1) Energy Safe Victoria may suspend or revoke an approval for an alternative compliance mechanism if Energy Safe Victoria considers that—\n\n(a) there has been a failure to comply with a condition of the approval and the failure is so serious that it cannot be dealt with by increased monitoring requirements under the arrangement; or\n\n(b) the responsible person has committed an act or omission that constitutes a major non‑compliance with the approval that was specified in the approval under clause 33(3)(d)(iii).\n\n(2) If Energy Safe Victoria suspends or revokes an approval under subclause (1), Energy Safe Victoria must give the responsible person a written notice setting out—\n\n(a) that the approval has been suspended or revoked (as the case requires); and\n\n(b) the reasons for the suspension or revocation; and\n\n(c) if the approval is suspended, the period of suspension; and\n\n(d) if the approval is revoked, the day from which the revocation has effect.\n\n(3) Energy Safe Victoria may at any time revoke the suspension of an approval by giving written notice of the revocation to the responsible person.\n\nSchedule 2—Applicable distance for middle two thirds of electric line span\n\nGraph 1—Insulated electric lines in all areas\n\nClauses 3 and 24\n\n![C:\\Users\\tim\\Desktop\\Graph1test.jpg]()\n\n**Graph 1 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 24 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 1**\n\n1 The applicable distance includes allowances for sag and sway of the conductor.\n\n2 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 24 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 3.\n\n3 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 24 applies is 300 millimetres.\n\nGraph 2—Uninsulated low voltage electric line in a low bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 3 and 25\n\n**![A graph with a line\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()**\n\n**Graph 2 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 25 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 2**\n\n1 The applicable distance includes allowances for sag and sway of the conductor for a span up to and including 100 metres in length.\n\n2 For a span longer than 100 metres, the applicable distance must be extended by an additional distance to allow for sag and sway of the conductor. This is done by adding that distance to the applicable distance (see clause 25(2)(b)).\n\n3 A distribution company, or an owner or operator of a railway supply network or a tramway supply network, must assist a Council, if requested, by determining the additional distance that allows for sag and sway of the conductor (see clause 21(2)).\n\n4 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 25 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 4.\n\n5 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 25 applies is 1000 millimetres.\n\nGraph 3—Uninsulated high voltage electric line (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a low bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 3 and 26\n\n**![C:\\Users\\apadanyi\\Desktop\\Capture.PNG]()**\n\n**Graph 3 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 26 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 3**\n\n1 The applicable distance includes allowances for sag and sway of the conductor for a span up to and including 100 metres in length.\n\n2 For a span longer than 100 metres, the applicable distance must be extended by an additional distance to allow for sag and sway of the conductor. This is done by adding that distance to the applicable distance (see clause 26(2)(b)).\n\n3 A distribution company, or an owner or operator of a railway supply network or a tramway supply network, must assist a Council, if requested, by determining the additional distance (see clause 21(2)).\n\n4 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 26 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 3.\n\n5 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 26 applies is 1500 millimetres.\n\nGraph 4—Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric line in a low bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 3 and 27\n\n![C:\\Users\\apadanyi\\Desktop\\Capture.PNG]()\n\n**Graph 4 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 27 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 4**\n\n1 The applicable distance includes allowances for sag and sway of the conductor for a span up to and including 100 metres in length.\n\n2 For a span longer than 100 metres, the applicable distance must be extended by an additional distance to allow for sag and sway of the conductor. This is done by adding that distance to the applicable distance (see clause 27(2)(a)(ii)).\n\n3 A distribution company, or an owner or operator of a railway supply network or a tramway supply network, must assist a Council, if requested, by determining the additional distance (see clause 21(2)).\n\n4 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 27 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5.\n\n5 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 27 applies is 2250 millimetres.\n\nGraph 5—Uninsulated low voltage and high voltage electric line (other than a 66 000 volt electric line) in a hazardous bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 3 and 28\n\n**![C:\\Users\\apadanyi\\Desktop\\Capture.PNG]()**\n\n**Graph 5 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 28 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 5**\n\n1 The applicable distance must be extended by an additional distance to allow for sag and sway of the conductor. This is done by adding that distance to the applicable distance (see clause 28(2)(a)).\n\n2 A distribution company, or an owner or operator of a railway supply network or a tramway supply network, must assist a Council, if requested, by determining the additional distance (see clause 21(2)).\n\n3 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 28 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5.\n\n4 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 28 applies is 1500 millimetres.\n\nGraph 6—Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric line in a hazardous bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 3 and 29\n\n**![C:\\Users\\apadanyi\\Desktop\\Capture.PNG]()**\n\n**Graph 6 Formula**\n\nThe formula by which the applicable distance for the middle two thirds of an electric line span to which clause 29 applies is calculated as follows—\n\nwhere—\n\n\t**SD** is the span distance;\n\n\t**AD** is the applicable distance.\n\n**Notes to Graph 6**\n\n1 The applicable distance must be extended by an additional distance to allow for sag and sway of the conductor. This is done by adding that distance to the applicable distance (see clause 29(2)(a)).\n\n2 A distribution company, or an owner or operator of a railway supply network or a tramway supply network, must assist a Council, if requested, by determining the additional distance (see clause 21(2)).\n\n3 The minimum clearance space for an electric line span to which this Graph and clause 29 apply is partially illustrated in Figures 1 and 5.\n\n4 The applicable distance for the first and last sixths of an electric line span to which clause 29 applies is 2250 millimetres.\n\nFigure 1—Plan view of electric lines in all areas\n\nClauses 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29,  \nGraphs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6\n\n![T]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 2—Insulated electric lines in all areas\n\nClause 24, Graph 1\n\n![A tree with power lines and a moon\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 3—Insulated electric lines in all areas and uninsulated high voltage electric lines (other than 66 000 volt electric lines) in low bushfire risk areas\n\nClauses 24 and 26, Graphs 1 and 3\n\n![A few trees with a sign\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 4—Uninsulated low voltage electric line in a low bushfire risk area\n\nClause 25, Graph 2\n\n![A tree with a sign\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 5—Uninsulated 66 000 volt electric line in a low bushfire risk area and uninsulated electric line in a hazardous bushfire risk area\n\nClauses 27, 28 and 29, Graphs 4, 5 and 6\n\n![A group of trees with a sign\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 6—End view of the transmission line\n\nClause 30\n\n![A diagram of electrical power lines\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\nFigure 7—Trees adjacent to the transmission line\n\nClauses 8 and 30\n\n![A diagram of a power line\n\nAI-generated content may be incorrect.]()\n\nNOT TO SCALE\n\n═════════════\n\nEndnotes\n\n1 General information\n\nSee [www.legislation.vic.gov.au](http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au) for Victorian Bills, Acts and current Versions of legislation and up-to-date legislative information.\n\nThe Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025, S.R. No. 40/2025 were made on 11 June 2025 by the Governor in Council under sections 151, 151A and 157 of the **Electricity Safety Act 1998**, No. 25/1998 and came into operation on 26 June 2025: regulation 3.\n\nThe Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025 will be revoked on 25 June 2026: see regulation 14.\n\nINTERPRETATION OF LEGISLATION ACT 1984 (ILA)\n\nStyle changes\n\nSection 54A of the ILA authorises the making of the style changes set out in Schedule 1 to that Act.\n\nReferences to ILA s. 39B\n\nSidenotes which cite ILA s. 39B refer to section 39B of the ILA which provides that where an undivided regulation, rule or clause of a Schedule is amended by the insertion of one or more subregulations, subrules or subclauses the original regulation, rule or clause becomes subregulation, subrule or subclause (1) and is amended by the insertion of the expression \"(1)\" at the beginning of the original regulation, rule or clause.\n\nInterpretation\n\nAs from 1 January 2001, amendments to section 36 of the ILA have the following effects:\n\n• Headings\n\nAll headings included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after  \n1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any heading inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.  \nThis includes headings to Parts, Divisions or Subdivisions in a Schedule; Orders; Parts into which an Order is divided; clauses; regulations; rules; items; tables; columns; examples; diagrams; notes or forms.  \nSee section 36(1A)(2A)(2B).\n\n• Examples, diagrams or notes\n\nAll examples, diagrams or notes included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after 1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any examples, diagrams or notes inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, form part of that Statutory Rule. See section 36(3A).\n\n• Punctuation\n\nAll punctuation included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after  \n1 January 2001 forms part of that Statutory Rule. Any punctuation inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.  \nSee section 36(3B).\n\n• Provision numbers\n\nAll provision numbers included in a Statutory Rule form part of that Statutory Rule, whether inserted in the Statutory Rule before, on or after  \n1 January 2001. Provision numbers include regulation numbers, rule numbers, subregulation numbers, subrule numbers, paragraphs and subparagraphs. See section 36(3C).\n\n• Location of \"legislative items\"\n\nA \"legislative item\" is a penalty, an example or a note. As from 13 October 2004, a legislative item relating to a provision of a Statutory Rule is taken to be at the foot of that provision even if it is preceded or followed by another legislative item that relates to that provision. For example, if a penalty at the foot of a provision is followed by a note, both of these legislative items will be regarded as being at the foot of that provision. See section 36B.\n\n• Other material\n\nAny explanatory memorandum, table of provisions, endnotes, index and other material printed after the Endnotes does not form part of a Statutory Rule. See section 36(3)(3D)(3E).\n\n2 Table of Amendments\n\nThere are no amendments made to the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Interim Regulations 2025 by statutory rules, subordinate instruments and Acts.\n\n3 Explanatory details\n\n1. Reg. 4: S.R. No. 50/2020. [↑](#endnote-ref-1)\n\n2. Reg. 9(4)(p): S.R. No. 113/2019 as amended by S.R. No. 112/2023. [↑](#endnote-ref-2)\n\n3. Reg. 13: S.R. No. 40/2023.\n\n  ——\n\n  **Penalty Units**\n\n  These Regulations provide for penalties by reference to penalty units within the meaning of section 110 of the **Sentencing Act 1991**. The amount of the penalty is to be calculated, in accordance with section 7 of the **Monetary Units Act 2004**, by multiplying the number of penalty units applicable by the value of a penalty unit.\n\n  The value of a penalty unit for the financial year commencing 1 July 2024 is $197.59 and for the financial year commencing 1 July 2025 is $203.51. The amount of the calculated penalty may be rounded to the nearest dollar.\n\n  The value of a penalty unit for future financial years is to be fixed by the Treasurer under section 5 of the **Monetary Units Act 2004**. The value of a penalty unit for a financial year must be published in the Government Gazette and a Victorian newspaper before 1 June in the preceding financial year.\n\n  ——\n\n  **Table of Applied, Adopted or Incorporated Matter**\n\n  The following table of applied, adopted or incorporated matter was included in S.R. No. 40/2025 in accordance with the requirements of regulation 5 of the Subordinate Legislation Regulations 2024.\n\n    | **Statutory rule provision** | **Title of applied, adopted or incorporated document** | **Matter in applied, adopted or incorporated document** |\n    | --- | --- | --- |\n    | Regulation 5,<br>definition of ***AS 4373***, regulation 9(4)(k), Schedule 1, clause 10 | AS 4373, \"Pruning of amenity trees\" published 14 March 2007 by Standards Australia, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | **Statutory rule provision** | **Title of applied, adopted or incorporated document** | **Matter in applied, adopted or incorporated document** |\n    | --- | --- | --- |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***aerial bundled cable*** | AS/NZS 3560.1, \"Electric cables—Cross-linked polyethylene insulated—Aerial bundled—For working voltages up to and including 0·6/1 (1·2) kV—Part 1: Aluminium conductors\" published 7 April 2000 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***aerial bundled cable*** | AS/NZS 3560.2, \"Electric cables—Cross-linked polyethylene insulated—Aerial bundled—For working voltages up to and including 0·6/1 (1·2) kV—Part 2: Copper conductors\" published 17 July 2003 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***aerial bundled cable*** | AS/NZS 3599.1, \"Electric cables—Aerial bundled—Polymeric insulated—Voltages 6·35/11 (12) kV and 12·7/22 (24) kV—Part 1: Metallic screened\" published 11 September 2003 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | **Statutory rule provision** | **Title of applied, adopted or incorporated document** | **Matter in applied, adopted or incorporated document** |\n    | --- | --- | --- |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***aerial bundled cable*** | AS/NZS 3599.2, \"Electric cables—Aerial bundled—Polymeric insulated—Voltages 6·35/11 (12) kV and 12.7/22 (24) kV—Part 2: Non-metallic screened\" published 5 June 1999 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1, definition of ***covered conductor*** | AS/NZS 3675, \"Conductors—Covered overhead—For working voltages 6.35/11 (12) kV up to and including 19/33 (36) kV\" published 30 May 2002 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of *electric cable* | AS/NZS 1429.1, \"Electric cables—Polymeric insulated—Part 1: For working voltages    1.9/3.3 (3.6) kV up to and including 19/33 (36) kV\" published 21 April 2006 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of *electric cable* | AS/NZS 1429.2, \"Electric cables—Polymeric insulated—Part 2: For working voltages above    19/33 (36) kV up to and including 87/150 (170) kV\" published 17 September 2009 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | **Statutory rule provision** | **Title of applied, adopted or incorporated document** | **Matter in applied, adopted or incorporated document** |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***insulating cover*** | AS IEC 60060.1, \"High‑voltage test techniques—Part 1: General definitions and test requirements\" published 18 October 2018 by Standards Australia, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***insulating cover*** | AS IEC 60060.2, \"High‑voltage test techniques—Part 2: Measuring systems\" published 6 November 2018 by Standards Australia, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of ***insulating cover*** | AS 4202, \"Insulating covers for electrical purposes\" published 11 July 1994 by Standards Australia, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of *insulating cover* | AS/NZS 3100, \"Approval and test specification—General requirements for electrical equipment\" published on 24 June 2022 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand and reissued in November 2024, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n    | Schedule 1, clause 1,<br>definition of *insulating cover* | AS/NZS 3121, \"Approval and test specification—Insulating mouldings\" published 22 November 2002 by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, as amended from time to time | The whole |\n\n   [↑](#endnote-ref-3)","sortOrder":0}],"analysis":{"issue_detection":{"absurdities":[],"contradictions":[]},"kimi_summary":{"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":8,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"This is an interim (temporary) re-enactment of the 2020 regulations with the same core purpose: setting clearance requirements for electric lines. While it updates technical standards and references, it does not represent significant scope creep beyond the original intent of managing vegetation near power lines for bushfire and safety purposes."},"complexity_factors":["Multiple nested exception clauses (clauses 4-7) with up to 5 cumulative conditions each, including temporal requirements (14-month inspection cycles), physical measurements (branch width in mm), and risk assessment documentation","Mathematical formulas for calculating clearance distances in clauses 24-29, with different formulas for different span distances and voltage types","47 defined terms across regulation 5 and Schedule 1 clause 1, including complex technical definitions referencing external Australian Standards (AS/NZS series)","Cross-references to at least 6 other pieces of legislation: Electricity Safety Act 1998, Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, Heritage Act 2017, Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, Country Fire Authority Act 1958, and Electronic Transactions (Victoria) Act 2000","Dual-layer structure: regulations plus embedded Code of Practice in Schedules 1-2, with interlocking obligations (e.g., regulation 9(4)(j) references clause 21(2) of the Code)","Variable compliance pathways: standard clearances vs. alternative compliance mechanisms (Division 2 of Part 3 of Code) with separate application, assessment, and approval processes","Geographic and technical layering: distinctions between low bushfire risk areas vs. hazardous bushfire risk areas, insulated vs. uninsulated cables, low voltage vs. high voltage vs. 66kV vs. transmission lines (>66kV)","Temporal limitations: interim regulations with automatic revocation date (regulation 14), plus specific deadlines for management plans (regulation 9)","Record-keeping obligations with varying retention periods (5 years in clauses 4(3), 6(3), 7(3), 19(4), 21(3))","Urgent work provisions (clause 19) that override normal notification requirements but trigger separate restrictions (clauses 14-15) and post-work notification"],"plain_english_summary":"**What this legislation does:**\n\nThese regulations set the rules for keeping trees away from power lines in Victoria to prevent bushfires and electrocution. They replace the 2020 regulations and are temporary (lasting one year until June 2026).\n\n**Who it affects:**\n\n- **Electricity companies** (distribution companies, transmission line operators)\n- **Councils** (local governments)\n- **Railway and tramway operators**\n- **Private landowners** with trees near power lines\n- **Arborists** (tree specialists) who do the cutting\n\n**Key requirements:**\n\n- **Clear zones around power lines:** Different types of power lines need different amounts of clear space (from 300mm for insulated low-voltage lines up to several metres for high-voltage transmission lines). The exact distance depends on voltage, whether the line is insulated, bushfire risk in the area, and how far apart the power poles are.\n\n- **Tree cutting standards:** Trees must be cut according to Australian Standard AS 4373 (professional pruning standards) where possible.\n\n- **Protection of special trees:** Indigenous trees, heritage-listed trees, and trees providing habitat for threatened animals get special protection. They can only be cut or removed if absolutely necessary for safety.\n\n- **Notification rules:** Before cutting trees on private property or public land, electricity companies and councils must usually give 14-60 days' notice to landowners and publish notices.\n\n- **Management plans:** Companies must prepare detailed plans showing how they'll comply with the rules, including maps, procedures, and qualifications of workers.\n\n- **Exceptions for small branches:** In some cases, small branches (under 10mm) or stable large branches near insulated low-voltage lines don't need to be removed if properly assessed by a qualified arborist.\n\n- **Alternative compliance:** Companies can apply to use different safety methods (like special equipment or technologies) instead of the standard clearances, if approved by Energy Safe Victoria.\n\n**Why it matters:**\n\nThese rules aim to prevent power lines from starting bushfires—a major cause of deadly fires in Victoria—while balancing environmental protection and property rights. The regulations are \"interim\" (temporary) while longer-term arrangements are developed."},"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":8,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The instrument stays within the core subject matter of electric line clearance established by the Electricity Safety Act 1998: defining minimum clearance spaces, duties of responsible persons, notice/consultation, and approvals for alternative technical measures. Compared with earlier (2020) regulations it appears to be a technical and procedural update—more prescriptive in management plan content, record keeping and the formalisation of alternative compliance mechanisms—but it does not materially broaden the policy domain beyond electric line clearance and related safety/vegetation management. The interim time limit (revocation after one year) and some tightened administrative oversight (explicit ESV powers to require plan amendments and to set ACM conditions) are changes in implementation detail rather than a significant expansion of scope."},"complexity_factors":["Lengthy Schedule 1 with many technical defined terms (approximately 25–30 defined terms across regulation 5 and Schedule 1).","Multiple conditional clearance regimes: rules vary by conductor insulation (insulated vs uninsulated), voltage band (low, high, 66 kV, transmission), bushfire risk area (low vs hazardous), and span length (first/last sixth vs middle two thirds).","Numerous numeric thresholds and exceptions (e.g. branch widths of 10 mm and 130 mm; 500 mm allowances; 14‑month inspection windows; 5‑year record retention).","Graph/formula‑based calculations for the middle two thirds of spans across six graphs (Schedule 2) plus additional sag-and‑sway allowance determined either by management plan or council record (clause 23).","Nested exceptions and conditional logic in clauses 4–7 (structural vs small branches, insulated vs uninsulated lines, and different requirements in low vs hazardous bushfire risk areas).","Procedural complexity: management plan content requirements, approval and amendment powers for Energy Safe Victoria, exemption power, and compliance/notification timeframes (regulations 9–11 and clauses 31–35).","Cross‑references to multiple external Acts and incorporated technical standards (AS/NZS series, IEC, Standards Australia), increasing interpretive work for implementers.","Enforcement matrix: some Code provisions are prescribed for section 90 offences, others are prescribed for infringement notices — requires mapping by practitioners to identify enforceable obligations and penalties."],"plain_english_summary":"**What this instrument does (mechanics)**\n\n- Prescribes a new Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance (the Code) and revokes the 2020 regulations. The Code and an accompanying Schedule set out technical clearance distances between trees and overhead electric lines, duties for people who must keep trees clear, notification/consultation and record‑keeping rules, and an approval pathway for alternative ways of complying.\n- Requires most \"responsible persons\" (those who, under the Electricity Safety Act 1998, must keep whole or part of a tree clear of an electric line) to prepare annual management plans. Major electricity companies have a separate timetable and must submit a five‑year plan to Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) for approval before 31 March 2026 for 1 July 2026–30 June 2031.\n- Sets out precise minimum clearance spaces between tree parts and electric lines that vary by: whether conductors are insulated or uninsulated; voltage bands (extra‑low, low, high, transmission); span length; location in low or hazardous bushfire risk areas; and (for long spans) an extra allowance for sag and sway. Graphs and formulas (in Schedule 2) are used for distances in many cases.\n- Creates specific exceptions allowing certain branches to remain within those minimum clearance spaces where safety/structural criteria are met (for example, limited small branches under insulated low‑voltage lines or structural branches subject to arborist inspection and risk mitigation), and requires five years of record retention for those cases.\n- Imposes procedural obligations before cutting or removing trees on private or public land or trees of cultural/environmental significance: written notices, publication for public land, consultation with occupiers/owners, and timing limits (not earlier than 14 days and not later than 60 days after notice, unless urgent). There are narrower rules for urgent work (when immediate danger arises) including limits on how far into clearance zones cutting may occur and constraints on removal.\n- Establishes an approval process for alternative compliance mechanisms (ACMs): an applicant (distribution company or other responsible person) must lodge a formal safety assessment, describe standards and procedures, specify the alternative minimum clearance space, obtain owner/operator consents where relevant, and may be subject to conditions, monitoring and suspension or revocation by ESV.\n- Gives ESV supervisory powers: require management plan amendments or additional information, grant exemptions subject to conditions, approve or refuse ACMs, and publish or notify decisions. Some Code provisions are prescribed offences or attract prescribed penalties and may be the subject of infringement notices.\n- Requires transmission line owners/operators to manage fuel under and adjacent to transmission lines to reduce fire risk, and requires distribution companies to give annual advice to land occupiers about duties and safe methods for vegetation management.\n- The Regulations are interim: they commence 26 June 2025 and are expressly revoked on 25 June 2026.\n\n**Who this affects**\n\n- Responsible persons under the Electricity Safety Act 1998: commonly distribution companies, transmission line owners/operators, rail/tramway supply network owners, and other parties who the Act assigns clearance responsibilities (often landowners or occupiers where lines cross private land). See regulation 6 and Schedule 1.\n- Councils and land managers: have consultation and notification roles and can request technical assistance (clause 21) from distribution companies or network owners.\n- Private landowners and occupiers: will receive written notices about intended cutting/removal and may be consulted about works on their land; they may bear the loss of vegetation or engage in dispute resolution procedures set out in management plans.\n- Arborists and contractors: the Code requires suitably qualified arborists for inspections and sets minimum qualifications for persons doing assessments; contractors will need to follow AS 4373 “Pruning of amenity trees” as far as practicable.\n- Energy Safe Victoria (ESV): given powers of approval, oversight, exemptions, and enforcement.\n\n**Why it matters (stated purpose vs practical effects)**\n\n- Stated purpose: the Regulations say they are to set standards and practices for tree cutting/removal around electric lines, protect tree health where cutting is required, require management procedures to minimise the risk of trees contacting lines (and thereby causing fire or electrocution), and provide for management plans and other matters authorised under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 (regulation 1).\n\n- Practical effects and trade‑offs to test that purpose:\n  - Costs and who pays: responsible persons will incur inspection, arborist reporting, cutting/removal, record‑keeping, notice/publication and plan‑preparation costs. For distribution companies and major electricity companies, those costs are likely to be concentrated and may be passed through to customers depending on the regulatory and commercial setting (see regulation 9, clauses 4 and 21). Private landowners may bear the loss or amenity cost of tree works on their land.\n  - Compliance burden and administrative discretion: ESV has broad supervisory powers (request information, instruct amendments, approve or refuse plans and ACMs, grant exemptions with conditions). That centralised discretion creates implementation risk and administrative workload for both ESV and responsible persons (regulations 10 and 11; clauses 31–35). The interim time window (one year) may concentrate work and create resourcing pressure.\n  - Effects on private choice and ownership: the Code limits owners’ and occupiers’ control over trees where the Act assigns clearance responsibilities; however the instrument builds in consultation and notice steps and sets constraints on timing and removal (clauses 13–19). There are special protections and minimisation requirements for indigenous, heritage, Aboriginal‑listed, threatened or otherwise significant trees (clauses 11–12 and Schedule 1, clause 11).\n  - Safety vs amenity trade‑offs: the Code allows limited retention of certain branches where structural inspections and mitigation are done (clauses 4–7). That produces a trade‑off between preserving trees and reducing immediate clearance work; it produces a compliance/monitoring burden (records for 5 years) and potentially higher arborist costs.\n  - Incentives and substitution effects: the ACM pathway lets network owners adopt engineering or technology solutions (insulated conductors, covered conductors, conductor spreaders, different clearances) instead of vegetation removal. That may encourage investment in mitigation technologies where they are cost‑effective, but requires a formal safety assessment and ESV approval (clauses 31–33). There is scope for concentrated benefit (network owner avoids repeated cutting) and dispersed costs (ESV must assess safety and community impacts).\n  - Enforcement and penalties: prescribed offences and infringement noticeability are set for key plan and Code obligations (regulations 8 and 12). Penalties may be significant (section 90 of the Act as noted), which increases compliance incentives but raises stakes for disputes about technical interpretation (for example, how to calculate the additional sag-and‑sway allowance).\n  - Implementation risk from technical detail: minimum clearances depend on a matrix of variables (conductor insulation, voltage, span length, bushfire risk area). That creates potential for differing technical judgments, and the Code leaves some sag/sway determinations to management plans or council records (clause 23 and regulation 9(4)(j)), which increases points of possible inconsistency.\n\n**Immediate operational points a responsible person should note**\n\n- Prepare and publish management plans on time (annual for most responsible persons; major companies have separate five‑year plan requirement). Plans must specify procedures for determining additional sag/sway allowance, qualifications of staff and audit processes (regulation 9).\n- Keep detailed records for five years where branches are left within minimum clearance spaces under an exception (clauses 4–7).\n- Follow notice, publication and consultation steps before non‑urgent cutting/removal on private or public land and meet timing windows (clauses 16–18, 13).\n- Where seeking to change the engineering approach (lower clearances or different methods), prepare a formal safety assessment and apply to ESV for an ACM approval (clauses 31–33). Expect conditions, monitoring and reporting requirements.\n- Be aware the instrument is interim and expires 25 June 2026; transitional planning should account for possible replacement rules.\n\n**Key cross‑references and technical standards**\n\n- Significant cross‑references to the Electricity Safety Act 1998 (sections 84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 86B), the Country Fire Authority Act 1958, the Heritage Act 2017, the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.\n- AS 4373 “Pruning of amenity trees” is incorporated as the standard to follow “as far as practicable” when cutting (regulation 5, clause 10). Other electrical and insulating material standards are adopted in definitions (Schedule 1, clause 1 and endnotes).\n\n"},"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"A positive credit balance is required for all requests, including BYOK, so fallback providers remain available. Add credits at https://vercel.com/d?to=%2F%5Bteam%5D%2F%7E%2Fai%3Fmodal%3Dtop-up to continue.","source":"analysis-cron"},"summary":{"complexity_score":3,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"Based on the available information, these interim regulations appear to maintain the same scope as the existing electric line clearance framework — preserving existing vegetation clearance obligations on a temporary basis. No evidence of scope expansion or contraction from the original regulatory intent."},"complexity_factors":["Limited document content provided — only metadata and version history visible, not the substantive regulatory text","Interim nature of the regulations creates a layered legal framework (these sit on top of or alongside the principal Act)","Technical clearance distance measurements typically reference Australian Standards, adding a cross-referencing burden","Overlapping responsibilities between landowners, energy distributors, and councils can create confusion about who is obligated to act","Relatively narrow subject matter (vegetation clearance) keeps overall complexity low"],"plain_english_summary":"These interim regulations require maintaining safe clearances between vegetation and overhead power lines in Victoria while permanent rules are developed. They preserve existing legal obligations for landowners, energy distributors, contractors and councils to trim or manage vegetation to reduce bushfire risk, electrocution and outages. Compliance matters now to prevent deadly fires and keep the network safe."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025","history":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025/history","analysis":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/electricity-safety-electric-line-clearance-interim-regulations-2025/documents"}}