Hazard reduction burns

Planned burns play an important role in reducing bushfire risk and supporting land management but burning near electrical infrastructure introduces additional risks. Careful planning and coordination helps keep crews safe and ensures reliable power for the community.

Why this matters

Fire and electricity infrastructure don’t mix well. Heat and smoke from burns can weaken power poles, damage overhead lines and interfere with electrical equipment. In some cases, this can lead to power outages or even start new fires.

Taking the right precautions helps reduce these risks and keeps both crews and the community safe.

Preparing for a hazard reduction burn

Managing risk during a burn requires careful attention at every stage. The steps you take before, during and after the burn all play a role in keeping people safe and protecting nearby electrical infrastructure.

Before you burn

Obtain all required permits and approvals
Notify Powercor well in advance of any planned burn near the electricity network
Provide burn location, timing and scope where possible
Identify nearby electrical assets, including:
- Power poles
- Overhead powerlines
- Transformers and ground-mounted equipment
- Stay wires and support structures
Establish exclusion zones:
- Minimum 8 metres around poles
- Avoid burning directly under powerlines
Clear vegetation from around poles and assets prior to ignition

During the burn

After the burn

If something goes wrong

If a power pole, line or other electrical asset is damaged or impacted, keep well clear. Always stay at least 10 metres away from powerlines or damaged equipment.

Contact Powercor immediately on 13 24 12 so the area can be made safe.

If the situation is life-threatening, call 000.

CitiPower and Powercor acknowledge and respect the Traditional Owners as the original custodians of the lands and waters where we operate. We recognise First Peoples’ unique rights as Traditional Owners and their deep spiritual connection to Country, and thank them for continuing to care for it. We honour Elders past and present whose knowledge and wisdom has ensured the continuation of culture and traditional practices.

We work hard to ensure our organisation is inclusive and diverse. This means everyone can feel valued, trusted, authentic and safe at work.

Hazard reduction burns

Why this matters

Preparing for a hazard reduction burn

Before you burn

During the burn

After the burn

If something goes wrong

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Hazard reduction burns

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Hazard reduction burns

Why this matters

Preparing for a hazard reduction burn

Before you burn

During the burn

After the burn

If something goes wrong

Looking for something else in Hazard reduction burns

Have a question for us?

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Hazard reduction burns