Each year, Council checks trees and other vegetation near powerlines across the Declared Area of Wangaratta to make sure they are a safe distance from electrical lines.
What is a Declared Area?
A Declared Area is an area set by the Victorian Government where responsibility for keeping vegetation clear of powerlines is clearly defined.
In a Declared Area, Council is responsible for managing vegetation near powerlines in Council‑managed streets, parks and reserves. This means Council must ensure trees and other vegetation in these areas do not grow too close to electrical lines and create a safety risk.
The Declared Area for which Council is responsible for electrical line clearance within the Rural City of Wangaratta is shown in Council's Electric Line Clearance Management Plan.(PDF, 7MB)
Why these works are needed
Following recent inspections, Council has identified a number of locations across Wangaratta where trees need trimming or removal to keep them safely clear of powerlines.
This work is important to:
- reduce the risk of power outages
- improve public safety
- help lower bushfire risk, especially ahead of the Fire Danger Period
Where trimming or removal is required, Council schedules the work to be completed before the declared Fire Danger Period.
When works will happen
Council has engaged a specialist contractor to carry out electrical line clearance works commencing from 11 May 2026.
Works will be completed in line with Council's Electric Line Clearance Management Plan.(PDF, 7MB) Wherever possible, tree pruning will be carried out to Australian Standard AS 4373-2007 - Pruning of Amenity Trees.
As we complete this work, you may notice crews working near powerlines, including the use of chainsaws and, at times, short-term traffic management or temporary parking restrictions.
Thank you for your patience while these works are completed to help keep our community safe and reduce the risk of fire and electricity outages.