Assess Clearance Heights
Identify overhead powerline clearance infringements along the transportation route.
Overheight loads
What is an overheight load?
An overheight load in New South Wales (NSW) refers to any vehicle, equipment, or transported object that exceeds the legal height limitations specified under the NSW road transport regulations. The standard height limitation for vehicles and loads in NSW is 4.3 metres, although certain vehicles, such as double-deck buses (4.4 metres), livestock carriers (4.6 metres), and other approved cases, may have higher allowances.
Overheight loads and the electricity network
Overheight loads can be dangerous near overhead powerlines. Clearance heights vary by location, road design and the type of powerline. You must allow a safe distance between the load and all powerlines. Contact with a powerline can cause:
- Power outages
- Structural damage to poles or lines
- Serious safety hazards for drivers, workers, and the public
Plan your route near powerlines
Before moving an overheight load, plan your route around overhead powerlines. Apply through the Endeavour Energy portal so we can help you:
Arrange Escorts or Asset Adjustments
In some cases, the utility may temporarily adjust or raise powerlines to accommodate overheight loads. Escorts or traffic control may also be required.
Adhere to Safe Approach Distances
Comply with SafeWork NSW requirements for safe distances around live electrical assets set out in the Work Near Electric Lines Code of Practice.
Failure to adequately plan for overheight loads near overhead assets can result in penalties under NSW road and electricity safety legislation. For detailed guidance, consultation with utility providers and adherence to the SafeWork NSW Code of Practice is essential.
How long a route assessment takes
Lead times for route assessments vary greatly dependant on the route, length of route, height of load and traffic density of the route. Endeavour Energy has many methods at its disposal to assess a route, and the best, most accurate method will be chosen on a case-by-case basis. Typically, a route assessment will take 2-3 weeks from application lodgement however an Endeavour Energy representative will contact you to discuss your required timeframes.
Once a route assessment is complete, results will be provided and either an authorisation letter will be issued for the move, or options will be discussed around whether an escort or asset adjustment works are required. Please note that all works, including the route assessment, incur fees. These fees are calculated based off the Endeavour Energy document Network Price List: Ancillary Network Services which is available on our website.
