When it comes to working near powerlines, safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. In Victoria, No Go Zones are designated safety boundaries created to prevent accidents and fatalities involving overhead powerlines. For scaffolders, builders, and site managers, understanding these zones is not just about compliance—it’s about being safe.

What Are No Go Zones?

No Go Zones are safety areas defined by Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) to mitigate the risk of electrical accidents around powerlines. These zones set strict minimum distances where no work or scaffolding can take place without formal approval. They apply to all kinds of worksites, from construction to agriculture, and are especially relevant in urban settings with dense infrastructure.

According to ESV, the key distinctions are:

Overhead Distribution Lines (pole-to-pole along streets)
Service Lines (from poles to properties)
Underground Assets
High vs Low Voltage Zones

Scaffolding and No Go Zones

If scaffolding equipment comes within 5.0 metres vertically or 4.6 metres horizontally of overhead powerlines, you’re in a No Go Zone. In this case, you must obtain a Permit to Work (PTW) from the relevant Victorian power distributor before proceeding.

As shown in the graphic above, scaffolding must never be erected above powerlines, regardless of voltage level. Even if your team plans to work near service lines (connecting power from the street to a property), you may require a power shutdown.

Spotters may assist during operation, but they are not enough during the erection or dismantling phase due to the unpredictability of scaffold movement.

How to Get a Permit to Work (PTW)

If your project falls within a No Go Zone, follow these steps:

Identify your site’s electricity distributor using the DELWP mapping tool.
Contact the distributor (see below) and apply for a PTW.
Allow up to two weeks for an inspector to attend your site.
If a shutdown is required, plan for up to four weeks for scheduling and execution.

Contact details for Victoria’s power distributors:

AusNet Services – 1300 360 795
Jemena – 131 626
Powercor / CitiPower – 132 206 / 1300 301 101
United Energy – 1300 131 689

Plan Ahead to Stay Safe

Resources like the Look Up and Live app and ESV’s published guidelines help teams identify hazards early. Prior to commencing an inspection, our team will allocate a Licensed Scaffolder individual who will be responsible for the onsite inspection and we will conduct a Safety inspection before scaffolding begins.

Starting early not only protects lives but also helps prevent costly delays due to permit wait times or shutdown logistics.

If you have any questions or No Go Zones, feel free to reach out to our team directly.