Easement Guidelines

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The Easement Guidelines below will assist you to work out what you can and can't do within TransGrid easements. Download a PDF version of the guidelines here.

To make an enquiry or seek TransGrid's permission to carry out an activity within a TransGrid easement, please visit the Easement Enquiries Portal.

  • Is your proposal located within or adjacent to a TransGrid easement?

    ​Transmission line easements vary in width depending on the operating voltage and design of the infrastructure. Generally, the higher the voltage, the wider the easement. The diagram below shows the typical widths of transmission line easements.  Please click here for a larger version of the diagram.

    To work out whether there is a TransGrid easement on your property and how wide it is, contact the New South Wales Land Registry Services for a detailed survey plan. 

    NSW Land Registry Services can be contacted on 1300 052 637 or via their website at www.nswlrs.com.au.

  • Is your proposal outside the exclusion zone?

    The exclusion zone is a safe clearance area around TransGrid transmission lines and structures to protect public safety, the high voltage network, and maintain access.

    Please check the criteria and diagrams below to ensure that your proposal is outside the exclusion zone.

    If your proposal is located within the exclusion zone, you will need to redesign it or seek permission from TransGrid. Most activities are prohibited within the exclusion zone, to meet TransGrid's public safety obligations. 

    If you are uncertain whether your proposal is within the exclusion zone or not, please contact TransGrid by submitting an enquiry via the Easement Enquiries Portal.

    Exclusion zone criteria - activities/developments/structures must:

      1. not impede TransGrid's access to its transmission infrastructure;

      2. where transmission lines are 132kV and below:

        • be located at least 20 metres away from any part of a transmission structure or guy wire;

        • for metallic structures, be located at least 22 metres away from any part of a transmission structure or guy wire;

        • be located at least 10 metres from the centre of the transmission line.

      3. where transmission lines are 220kV and above:

        • be located at least 30 metres away from any part of a transmission line structure or guy wire;

        • be located at least 17 metres from the centre of the transmission line.

    For a larger version of the diagram 132kV please click here

    For a larger version of the diagram 220kV please click here 

  • Is your proposal permitted within a TransGrid easement?
     

    If your proposal within a TransGrid easement is described below and it is outside the exclusion zone, no further permission from TransGrid is required.

     

    If you are unsure whether your proposal is permitted, please contact TransGrid by submitting an enquiry via the Easement Enquiries Portal.


     
    Cropping and grazing, provided:
     
      1. Machinery cannot extend more than 4.3 metres above ground level

    Note: Exclusion zone requirements to be at least 10/17 metres from the centre of transmission lines do not apply to cropping and grazing, however all other exclusion zone requirements apply to maintain access and cleared areas around transmission lines. The Fencing Guidelines must be complied with.

     


    All other agricultural activities including irrigation, provided:

      1. Machinery cannot extend more than 4.3 metres above ground level
      2. All fixed metallic objects are earthed
      3. Machinery, including irrigation, must remain outside the exclusion zone
      4. No solid jet of water is to be within 4 metres of overhead conductors
      5. Must use non-metallic piping
      6. No fuel storage
      7. No transmission line outages are required to undertake agricultural activities

     Note: The Fencing Guidelines must be complied with.

     


    Planting or cultivation of trees and shrubs, provided:

      1. Mature plant / tree height is less than 4 metres

     


    Short flag poles, weather vanes, single post signs, provided:

      1. Height above ground is no greater than 4.3 metres
      2. Non-climbable
      3. All fixed metallic parts are earthed

     


    Vehicle parking, provided:

      1. Height of vehicles no greater than 4.3 metres
      2. No flammable liquid containers or carriers
      3. Caravans are not occupied or connected (ie, temporary parking only)
      4. All fixed metallic parts are earthed

    Note: Lighting requires TransGrid's permission to meet height and electrical safety constraints.

     


    Public open spaces, such as fields, cycle ways, walkways or fenced dog parks, provided:

      1. No unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), kite flying or model aircrafts, and "warning signs" are installed
      2. Any structures, obstructions, seating or features (such as picnic areas) remain outside the exclusion zone and do not block access tracks to transmission line structures or guy wires
      3. Parallel roads, walking tracks, footpaths, cycleways and fenced dog parks are located outside the exclusion zone

    Note: Roads, tracks, footpaths, cycleways and fences which propose to cross the transmission line as a thoroughfare, require TransGrid's permission.

     


    Storage, provided:

      1. No greater than 2.5 metres height
      2. Stored material is non-flammable and non-combustible
      3. Non-corrosive or explosive materials
      4. No garbage, refuse or fallen timber or other material which could pose a bush fire risk
      5. Metallic objects earthed

     


    Operation of mobile plant and equipment, provided:

     


    Non‐electric fencing and yards, provided:

      1. No greater than 2.5 metre height
      2. Fencing does not restrict access to TransGrid assets
      3. Metallic fencing is earthed
      4. TransGrid's Fencing Guidelines are complied with

     


    Domestic recreational activities, provided:

      1. Structures must not be identified as requiring TransGrids permission or prohibited below
      2. Structures must be non-metallic and no greater than 2.5 metre height
      3. Floor area no greater than 20m2, where any portion is within easement
      4. Not connected to electricity supply
      5. Structures (including play equipment and BBQs) are to remain outside the exclusion zone
      6. No unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), kite flying or model aircrafts

    TransGrid reserves the right to review each activity individually and apply controls on a case-by-case basis. TransGrid will take into account public safety risks, and the safe operation, access and maintenance of TransGrid's electricity infrastructure.

    What if my activity does not meet the permitted criteria or is not listed above?

    You will need to seek TransGrid's permission so that we can assess potential risks to your safety and the electricity transmission infrastructure.
  • Does your proposal require TransGrid's permission?

    If your proposal is listed below and is outside the exclusion zone, you will need to seek TransGrid's permission:

    Any proposal which falls within a "permitted" category but does not meet the listed criteria

     

    Detached garages, carports, sheds, stables, pergolas and unroofed verandahs where no practicable alternative exists, provided:

    1. Structures are no greater than 4.3 metres height 
    2. Non-habitable
    3. Metallic structures are earthed
    4. Floor area no greater than 20m2,, where any portion is within easement
    5. Power connection only permitted if electrically isolated in accordance with AS/NZS 3000:2018 Electrical installations outside easement

     


    Sporting and recreational facilities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, exercise equipment provided:

    1. Structures are no greater than 4.3 metres height above ground level
    2. Metallic structures are earthed

     


        

    Native plant or other nurseries, community gardens, provided:

    1. Mature plant / tree height is less than 4 metres
    2. Structures are no greater than 4.3 metres height above ground level
    3. Any fixed structures, including pumps, are located outside the exclusion zone
    4. Metallic structures are earthed

     


    In-ground swimming pools including coping, provided:

    1. It is located at least 30 metres from transmission line structures or supporting guy wires
    2. Must be located at least 15 metres from transmission line centre (132kV or below) OR 25 metres from transmission line centre (above 132kV)
    3. Power connection is only permitted if electrically isolated in accordance with AS/NZS 3000:2018 Electrical installations outside easement
        4.  
    4. Site specific assessment will be required by TransGrid

    Lighting/external sources of power no greater than 4.3m height:

    1.  Non-climbable
    2. Must be electrically isolated in accordance with AS 3000:2018 Electrical installations outside easement
    3. Metallic structures are earthed

    Note: Exclusion zone requirements to be at least 10 metres from centre of 132kV and below transmission lines or 17m from centre of above 132k lines do not apply to lighting and external sources of power, however all other exclusion zone requirements apply.

     


    Electric fencing, where:

    1. Height is no greater than 2.5 metres
    2. Must be located at least 30 metres from transmission structures or supporting guy wires
    3. TransGrid Fencing Guidelines are complied with

     

    Roads and pathways that cross the transmission line as a thoroughfare:

    1. Where it is proposed that a road passes within 30 metres of a transmission structure or supporting guy wires: TransGrid may refuse consent or impose additional restrictions and other conditions
      1. The structure's earthing system may require modification to prevent fault currents from entering other utility services in the road. 
      2. The option of raising conductors or relocation of structures, at the full cost to the proponent, may be considered
    3. TransGrid may require additional protection (such as safety barriers) where there is a risk of vehicle impact
    4. Intersections shall not be located within the exclusion zone

     


    Low voltage utilities and services such as electricity, gas, telephone and water:

    1. Not located within the exclusion zone (additional clearances apply to metallic services)
    2. Parallel metallic services will require specific safety assessment
    3. Additional design and safety requirements will apply

    Note: Please contact TransGrid via the Easement Enquiries Portal to discuss additional clearances required for proposal.

     


    Excavation, quarrying and earth works, including dam and artificial lake construction, basins, swales, drains and dispersion channels, provided:

      1. No more than 3 metres in depth
      2. No generation of significant amounts of dust or smoke that can compromise the transmission line high voltage insulation
      3. Must not raise ground level, or reduce clearances below that required in AS 7000:2010 Overhead line design
      4. No ponding or water retention around TransGrid's structures
      5. Batter no steeper than 1 in 6 where access is required by TransGrid vehicles

    Any other change in ground levels that reduce clearances below that required in AS 7000:2010 Overhead line design:

    1. Criteria assessed on a case by case basis


    Use of explosives:
    1. Criteria assessed on a case by case basis

    Mining:
    1. Criteria assessed on a case by case basis

    Subdivisions (See separate Subdivision and Development Guidelines):
    1. Criteria assessed on a case by case basis
    2. Subdivisions that encourage unauthorised encroachments (for example, where the majority or all usable outdoor space in a proposed lot is located within a transmission line easement), will not be permitted, due to public safety risks.

    TransGrid reserves the right to assess each request for permission on a case-by-case basis, taking into account public safety risks, and the safe operation, access and maintenance of TransGrid's electricity infrastructure.

    TransGrid may grant permission subject to specific requirements, or refuse permission where the activity may put public safety or the operation of the network at risk.

    ​ 

    TransGrid can only give its permission to your proposal as holder of the easement. TransGrid's permission is not an approval from a consent authority. 


  • Is your proposal prohibited within TransGrid easements?

    If your proposal is listed below, it is prohibited from being carried out within any part of a transmission line easement. This is due to the inherent risk to people, public safety, and to ensure the safe, reliable operation of the network.

       Buildings, accommodation and structures:

      1. Buildings or structures which are not listed as permitted or require TransGrid's permission
      2. Construction of houses
      3. Site construction offices or workshops
      4. Camping or occupied caravans or other camping vehicles
      5. Above ground pools


    Fixed plant or equipment



    Interference with transmission lines:

      1. The placing of obstructions within 20 metres of any part of a transmission line structure or supporting guy wires
      2. Placing any obstructions on access tracks or within the easement area that restricts access
      3. Any structure whatsoever that during its construction or future maintenance will require an Accredited Person to access as per the WorkCover NSW Work Near Overhead Power Lines Code of Practice 2006
      4. The attachment of any fence, any signage, posters, or anything else, to a transmission line structure or guy wire
      5. Any work that generates significant amounts of dust or smoke that can compromise the transmission line high voltage insulation
      6. Movement of any vehicle or plant between tower legs, within 5 metres of a transmission line structure, guy wire or between a guy wire and the transmission pole
      7. Kite flying or model aircraft within the easement, flying of remote controlled or unmanned aerial vehicles (such as drones), any manned aircraft or balloon within 60m of any transmission line structure, guy wire or conductor
      8. Structures or objects that encourage or facilitate climbing (including working from vehicles)
        Note:  The final structure may meet AS7000 clearances, but may be accessible by Ordinary Persons within the Ordinary Persons Zone.


    Storage of flammable, combustible, corrosive or explosive materials, garbage, refuse or fallen timber


    Burning off or the lighting of fires

     


    Unsafe work practices under Work Near Overhead Power Lines Code of Practice:

  • What about underground cable easements?

    Different risks and requirements apply near TransGrid transmission cables. All proposals within cable easements require TransGrids permission via the Easement Enquiries Portal. For further guidance, please see the Work Near TransGrid Cables Information Brochure.

    TransGrid reserves the right to review each activity and apply controls on a case-by-case basis, taking into account public safety risks, and the safe operation, access and maintenance of TransGrid’s electricity infrastructure. 

    Underground cables are not always obvious. A dial before you dig search is essential prior to any excavation works. For more information click here.

  • How to seek TransGrid's permission

    You can seek TransGrid’s permission for proposals within easements via TransGrid’s Easement Enquiries Portal. This should be done before lodging a development application or planning agreement application with your concent authority.

    Please check the information on this page and the Fact Sheets and Guidelines below before you seek TransGrid’s permission.


    High Voltage Transmission Line Fact Sheet
    Electrical Safety Fact Sheet
    Fencing Guidelines
    Subdivision and Development Guidelines
    Work Near TransGrid Cables Information Brochure

  • Should I meet with TransGrid?

    ​If your proposal is complex (for example, master-planned subdivision), we recommend you meet with TransGrid before you submit your application for permission. You can arrange this via the Easement Enquiries Portal. 

  • What information should I include in my request for TransGrid's permission?

    ​Your request for permission via the Easement Enquiries Portal should include the following information:

      
    Name of applicant and/or company or Council✔
    Street address and Lot-DP ✔
    Description of proposal with height, depth and location of proposed activities/structures/ development  and assessment of impact on transmission infrastructure✔
    Contact information including phone number, address and email address✔

    A detailed, legible and to-scale plan showing property boundaries, proposal and distance of proposal to TransGrid's easement and transmission line structures and guy wires (if applicable)

    For large scale subdivisions, a Site Plan showing all new access points and access ways to the easement and transmission line structures

    		✔
    A three dimensional CAD drawing in 3D-DXF format✔ Only if proposal changes ground levels

    If we do not receive the above information we will need to request further details from you. This will delay your request for permission.

  • What happens when I lodge my development application?

    ​Please include your TransGrid permission and TG identification number as part of your development application. This will enable the referral process to be as efficient as possible.

    If you change your proposal after receiving TransGrid's permission, please lodge another request for permission via the Easement Enquiries Portal. This may delay the development application process.

    Seeking TransGrid’s permission and applying for development consent are two separate processes. TransGrid's permission does not allow you to carry out an activity, nor does it guarantee development consent.

  • What if my proposal doesn't need TransGrid's permission, but still requires development consent?

    The consent authority must still refer development applications for activities within transmission line easements to TransGrid as part of the application process. 

    We recommend you confirm with TransGrid that your proposal is permitted within the easement before you lodge your development application, by submitting an enquiry via the Easement Enquiries Portal.