Overhead Power Lines Distance Guidelines

Most overhead power lines have no protective insulation. Any contact with them could cause serious burns, injuries, and costly repairs. Protect yourself and others on your farm. Know your route before you transport tall equipment.

If your equipment or load exceeds a height of 4.15 metres (13' 7"), a permit is required from Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation.

If the farm equipment or load exceeds the height of 4.8 m or 15' 9" a permit is also required from Manitoba Hydro. These permits will protect everyone using provincial roadways.

When you apply for the Manitoba Hydro Agricultural Move Permit, you will have to provide:

• a description of the equipment that includes type, height, and width;
• a planned route identified on a municipal land owner map or hand-drawn map with road and highway numbers clearly marked. Identify all field access points and approaches.
• expected moving dates;
• contact information.

We will review the defined route, provide suggestions for an alternate route if necessary, and confirm that the route is safe and allows for adequate clearance of the equipment.

We may measure and upgrade the height of the line to meet minimum standards. Where customer requested upgrades are required, we will provide pricing where applicable.

A special Agricultural Move Permit will be issued and is valid for 45 days. This permit is for farmers moving agricultural equipment and does not apply to building moves or commercial businesses that support farm based industry. Building or commercial equipment moves require a work clearance/permit.

If you have concerns about clearance to overhead power lines, contact your local Manitoba Hydro district office for assistance or call 1-888-MBHYDRO.

Follow these guidelines to ensure you and others on your farm stay safe:

• know your route before transporting tall equipment;
• look up and make overhead safety a priority;
• remember that cultivators, air seeders, and grain augers make contact with overhead power lines most often;
• move slowly and carefully when you move tall equipment;
• check to make sure that enough room for clearance;
• never let anyone ride on top of moving farm equipment or hay bales;
• only Hydro staff should lift power lines;
• never transport metal elevators, metal irrigation pipe or metal ladders near power lines;
• granaries and other farm buildings should be located at least 9 metres (30') from overhead power lines.

For more information on traveling permits, contact Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation - Motor Carrier Permits and Development.