Overhead line clerances
Overhead line clerances
(OP)
I could not find any specific requirements in terms of the horizontal clearances between the nearest position of the overhead conductor and the edge of the ditch.
It semms to me that digging of drainage ditches within ROW of overhead line power lines is not strictly restricted by Govenrment regulations". Drainage ditches for rain water (no flammable materials, explosives or long pipelines inside ) should be allowed to be located within ROW of Overhead lines as long as the clearances are maintained as required and the adequate access for construction and maintenance is ensured. In order to facilitate the access to the power lines, Culverts can be constructed at certain locations if necessary.
Is there any body here with Transmission line experience? Appreciate it in advance.






RE: Overhead line clerances
Many of our power lines along streets have typical roadside drainage ditches. We generally try to avoid having large drainage ponds under our lines as they make access more difficult. Additionally we have had several instances of unapproved drainage projects actually raising the ground at the low sag point.
Also be aware that the NESC vehicle adder is only a couple of feet, but OSHA requires at least 10 feet of clearance during construction activities for unqualified workers. As an example NESC requires about 22 ft for a 230 kV line, but OSHA would require 13 feet over the top of a 15 ft tall D11 bulldozer.