POWERLINE DIVISION
Private Powerlines, Service Poles & Storm Response
From service pole installs and safety watch to emergency restoration after storms, we deliver utility‑grade work with fast mobilization.
POWERLINE AT YOUR REACH
Private Powerlines, Service Poles & Storm Response
Our FSR A‑R powerline team builds, repairs, and maintains private overhead/underground lines across the Lower Mainland. From service pole installs and safety watch to emergency restoration after storms, we deliver utility‑grade work with fast mobilization.
Private Powerlines
End‑to‑end builds and repairs for acreage, industrial yards, private roads, and multi‑lot developments. We handle design coordination, clearances, hardware, and energization steps—plus ongoing maintenance and aging pole replacement.
Services:
Service Poles
Temporary & Permanent Service Pole Installation. Fast, compliant poles for construction sites, new services, or yard power. Includes anchors, grounding, meter bases, and trench coordination where required. Lighting/security pole options available.
Services:
Hydro Takeover
We prepare your private line to meet BC Hydro standards for a clean takeover. Scope includes inspections, remedial work, documentation, and coordination through energization.
Services
TSBC Operating Permits
Unsure if your site requires an operating permit? We review your electrical equipment/plant, advise on applicability, and help prepare documentation. We coordinate with your FSR and TSBC processes so you stay compliant.
Services
Emergency Power Restoration
Storm or vehicle strike damage? We mobilize quickly to make safe, repair, or replace poles and conductors, and restore temporary service as needed.
Services
Pole Holding & Safety Watch
Secure yards, parkades, and job sites with purpose‑built poles. We supply, set, and wire lighting/camera systems with motion controls and smart monitoring options.
Services
4-Step Process
Our Process, Made Simple
We believe great construction starts with great communication. That’s why our process is built around transparency, trust, and timely execution — so you always know what to expect.
1. Consultation & Quote
We listen to your goals and walk through the site to understand the existing electrical system
2. Permitting & Planning
If a permit is needed (for example, EV charger installations), we’ll handle the paperwork and schedule any required inspections
3.Installation & Testing
Our certified electricians complete the work, perform load calculations when adding new equipment, and test for safety
4. Inspection & Documentation
We declare compliance under our FSR licence and provide you with a record of what was done for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our products and services.
What is a private powerline?
A private powerline is an overhead or underground distribution system that a property owner builds and maintains from the utility’s connection point to their equipment. Unlike utility‑owned lines, these systems are the owner’s responsibility, and they must meet utility‑grade standards. Our team designs and constructs private powerlines, both overhead and underground, up to the point where secondary service conductors attach. We handle poles, ducts, transformers and cable installations, ensuring the system meets BC Hydro requirements
Do I need a permit for my private powerline?
Yes. For new builds or major alterations, you need an electrical installation permit, which is usually obtained by a licensed contractor. In addition, Technical Safety BC requires an electrical operating permit for equipment that needs ongoing maintenance, operates in a hazardous location, is used for emergency service, or has a rated service capacity over 250 kVA. An operating permit is also mandatory if the supply to privately owned equipment exceeds 1 000 V AC / 1 500 V DC. Our FSR‑certified team can determine whether your system requires an operating permit and handle the paperwork for you.
What is a TSBC operating permit?
A TSBC operating permit is a licence issued by Technical Safety BC that allows you to operate and maintain certain electrical equipment. It ensures that a qualified Field Safety Representative (FSR) is responsible for the equipment and keeps proper maintenance recordstechnicalsafetybc.ca. Operating permits are commonly needed for high‑voltage equipment, emergency power systems or lines in hazardous environments. Primeline’s FSR A‑R licence means we can act as the named FSR on your permit and maintain the system to code.
What does FSR A‑R certification mean?
The Class A‑R: Power Line Technician FSR certificate authorizes us to install, construct, alter, repair, maintain and operate overhead and underground distribution systems up to the point where secondary service conductors attach. This includes poles, transformers, duct banks and underground cables. The certificate does not cover low‑voltage equipment inside buildings, but it ensures we can manage private powerlines safely and legally
What is a BC Hydro powerline takeover?
A BC Hydro takeover occurs when a property owner transfers a private line to BC Hydro for ongoing operation and maintenance. The owner must build the line to BC Hydro’s standards, pay inspection fees and provide rights‑of‑way and access. Once the line passes inspection and is transferred, BC Hydro becomes responsible for future maintenance and storm repairs. We assist with design, permitting and coordination throughout the takeover process.
Who is responsible for maintaining a private powerline?
Until you transfer ownership to BC Hydro, you are responsible for inspection, maintenance and safe operation. That includes replacing ageing poles, tightening hardware, clearing vegetation and ensuring proper insulation. Primeline offers maintenance programs, pole testing and cover‑up services to keep your line reliable. If your equipment requires regular maintenance or operates above 250 kVA or 1 000 V, Technical Safety BC also requires an operating permit