Low Voltage Line Covers (Tiger Tails)
Temporary line covers, commonly known as Tiger Tails, are black and yellow plastic sleeves installed on low voltage overhead powerlines to improve the visibility of live electrical wires. They get their nickname from their distinctive colour pattern, which resembles a tiger's tail.
These are commonly used when:
- Construction or demolition work is being performed near power lines
- Scaffolding or elevated work platforms are required close to the network
- Tree trimming or landscaping activities are taking place near live lines
Their purpose is to provide a visual warning of the presence of live wires and help prevent accidental contact – especially in busy work zones where visibility is critical.
Important. Tiger Tails do not insulate wires, protect against electric shock, reduce safe working distances, or allow work to occur closer to power lines than normally permitted.
Their installation does not remove the requirement for maintaining minimum approach distances as per safe work guidelines.
They are installed for safety awareness, but are not a substitute for proper electrical safety procedures or risk controls. Always refer to the relevant safe work guidelines when planning work near overhead lines.
You’ll need to submit a tiger tails application form. In most cases, this request is submitted by your licensed tradesperson, who can assist you with the necessary site and contact details.
You can also submit the form yourself if no tradesperson has been appointed – just provide as much information as possible, and we’ll work with you to confirm the details.
- Submit the application using the online form
- SA Power Networks reviews the request
- A representative will contact you to confirm the scope of work, costs, and any further details required
- You’ll receive a letter of offer for acceptance
- Once you return the acceptance, an invoice will be issued
- Installation will be scheduled after the invoice is paid
Once you accept the quote and return the signed acceptance, please allow up to 28 days for the installation of the tiger tails.
This timeframe allows us to plan resources, schedule crew availability, and complete any required safety reviews before work begins.
In some cases, installation may occur sooner depending on location, workload and crew availability, but we recommend factoring in the full 4 weeks when planning your project.
If you have critical timeframes or constraints, please note these in the comments section of your application, and we’ll do our best to accommodate where possible.
The total cost depends on the scope of the installation, location and duration of the covers. The invoice typically includes an upfront charge for the first six months of installation.
Additional fees may apply if the covers need to remain in place longer or if changes to the installation are required.
You can find a list of fees and charges, including those for tiger tails in our Connections & Ancillary Network Services manual.
You do not need to be present at the site during installation, but you must ensure:
- Clear access to the installation area
- Any required permits (e.g. road occupancy, scaffolding) are in place ahead of time
- No obstructions near the powerlines (e.g. overgrown vegetation, locked gates)
If the crew cannot safely access the site or perform the work as scoped, the installation may need to be rescheduled, and additional charges may apply.
We will schedule the removal based on the original booking timeframe unless you’ve contacted us to arrange an extension or early removal.
You do not need to be on site during removal, but you must ensure the area is clear and accessible, with no obstructions or hazards near the powerlines.
If access is blocked or the removal can’t proceed safely, the work may need to be rescheduled and additional charges could apply.
If you need the tiger tails to remain installed longer than initially planned, or if you need them removed early, please contact SA Power Networks at least 4 weeks in advance to discuss your options. Additional charges may apply for extensions or rescheduling.
Tiger Tails (temporary line covers) are only available for use on low voltage overhead powerlines. If your worksite involves high voltage (HV) lines, different controls are required.
If you need to work near HV infrastructure, you must:
- Review the Safe Clearances as specified by the Office of the Technical Regulator
- Contact SA Power Networks on 13 12 61 to discuss your planned works
- Submit a request for a Network Access Permit
- Comply with all relevant Safe Work guidelines and clearance requirements
Working near HV lines involves higher risk and requires additional safety planning and coordination.
Need help?
If you're unsure what type of powerline is on site or what to do next, call 13 12 61 and our team will help point you in the right direction. If you're unsure about how to complete your application, your tradesperson can assist. Otherwise, please contact SA Power Networks on 13 12 61 or email customerservice@sapowernetworks.com.au