Private Underground Electrical Connections
Published on 23 June 2026
Council Requirements
The City of Launceston is committed to maintaining the safety of the community and protecting public assets. Applications for Private Underground Electrical Connections (PUEC) within council road reservations will only be approved where the impact on community assets is considered reasonable and safe.
Council Consent and Asset Responsibility
As the Delegated Road Manager, the City of Launceston will only consent to the placement of electrical conduit within its road reserve where:
• TasNetworks records the asset
• TasNetworks accepts ongoing responsibility for the conduit
• The asset can be identified through Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) enquiries
As the State’s electrical distribution authority, TasNetworks is best placed and appropriately resourced to maintain accurate records of PUECs, which is essential to ensuring the ongoing safety of the community.
Application Requirements
For an application to be considered, applicants must provide a BYDA template that clearly shows:
• The property boundary
• The exact location of the proposed electrical connection including offsets
• Its relationship to the road reserve and existing council assets
Further information may be requested by the assessing officer where required.
Approval Process
If an application is successful, written approval will be issued in the form of an intent to approve letter. This letter can then be provided to TasNetworks as evidence of Council consent when seeking a connection application.
Alternative Connection Options
Applicants are encouraged to consider alternative electrical connection options, which may reduce impacts within the road reserve. These include:
• Installation of a private overhead connection pole
• Installation of an electrical turret at the property boundary for underground connections
Works Within the Road Reserve
If or when works are scheduled, a Road Occupation Permit is required to carry out work within the road reserve. Applications for permits can be submitted via the City of Launceston website.
This application shall be made no later than 10 business days prior to the works date.
Further Information and Submissions
For further information, or to lodge an application, please contact the City of Launceston via email at contactus@launceston.tas.gov.au
Applications should include a clear description of the proposed works and the exact location of the electrical connection as well as a completed BYDA template drawing.