In Cameroon, the distribution and management of electricity—including safety distances for high-voltage lines—are overseen by ENEO(Energy of Cameroon). These standards are strictly regulated to prevent electrical arcs(flashovers) and ensure public safety.
The safety protocols primarily follow the National Inter-Ministerial standards and the technical specifications of the Electricity Sector Regulatory Agency(ARSEL).
1. Safety Clearance Zones(Right-of-Way)
ENEO enforces a "Right-of-Way"(ROW) or servitude zone, which is a strip of land beneath and around power lines where construction and certain activities are strictly prohibited.
Vertical Clearances
For lines passing over structures or ground:
✅Over navigable roads: Minimum 7 to 8 meters.
✅Over buildings/roofs: Minimum 3 to 5 meters(though ENEO generally prohibits building directly under MT/HT lines entirely).
2. Enforcement and Policy
ENEO’s approach to managing these distances involves several phases:
✅Pre-Construction Surveys: Before installing new lines, ENEO(often in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development) identifies the corridor. Any existing legal structures within this zone are subject to compensation and demolition.
✅"The Danger Zone" Marking: ENEO often marks poles or areas near high-tension lines with "Danger of Death" signs. They also perform periodic "slashing" or vegetation control to ensure trees do not grow into the clearance zone.
✅Demolition of Illegal Occupancy: In Cameroon, it is common to see houses built under high-tension lines despite the risks. ENEO works with local administrative authorities(Prefects/Mayors) to issue formal warnings. If residents do not comply, the structures are often demolished without compensation if they were built after the line was established.
3. Risks of Non-Compliance
The distances are calculated to prevent two major risks:
✅Induction and Arcing: High-voltage electricity can "jump" across an air gap to a nearby conductor(like a metal roof or a person on a balcony) even without physical contact.
✅Structural Failure: In the event of a storm or equipment failure, a snapped cable must fall within the cleared corridor to prevent mass electrocution or fire.
NB: Recommended Action for Construction
If you are planning a project near power lines in regions like Bamenda or Douala:
✅Request a Technical Visit: Contact the local ENEO agency to have a technician measure the exact distance from the nearest pole or conductor.
✅Verify Land Titles: Check with the MINDCAF(Ministry of SETTLEMENT and Land Tenure) to ensure the land is not part of a public utility easement.
✅Respect the "Non-Aedificandi" Zone: Always maintain a minimum buffer of at least 15 meters for medium voltage and 25+ meters for high voltage to ensure long-term legal and physical safety.