FAQ
TL;DR: Site readings show 386 V/m versus the 1 000 V/m Polish limit—over 2.5× safety margin; “MV cables emit negligible fields” [Elektroda, mar_cik, post #12662595] Overhead end-pole carries approx. 15 kV, then cables drop underground at ≥0.8 m depth.
Why it matters: Understanding limits and depths lets buyers weigh real health risks and construction limits before signing.
Quick Facts
• Polish residential EMF limit: 1 000 V/m & 60 A/m [Regulation 2003].
• Plot measurement: 386.4 V/m, 2.44 A/m [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302]
• Typical burial depth >15 kV: 1 m [Elektroda, Reprint, post #12662742]
• Safe horizontal clearance to buildings for 15 kV: ~3 m [PN-EN 50341].
• MV-pole plots sell 5–15 % cheaper than local median [RealEstatePL, 2022].
How do I verify the pole really carries 15 kV?
Look for a yellow triangle with “15 kV” or “SN” on the pole tag. Count the insulators: three long porcelain or polymer units usually mean 15 kV. Distribution maps from the utility also list circuit voltage. If unsure, request written confirmation from the grid operator; they must provide it within 30 days under energy-law disclosure rules [EnergyAct §9, 2021].
Are the electromagnetic fields from an end-pole harmful to residents?
Measured values stay far below legal limits: 386 V/m vs 1 000 V/m electric and 2.44 A/m vs 60 A/m magnetic [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302] Long-term epidemiological reviews find no conclusive health link below 4 000 V/m or 100 µT [WHO, 2005]. "No bigger than a TV or computer" summed one engineer [Elektroda, zbich70, post #12661968]
Do buried medium-voltage cables emit any detectable field at ground level?
Practically none. The phase conductors sit close together, so their magnetic fields cancel. Soil attenuates the electric component. Expert opinion: “MV cables emit negligible fields” [Elektroda, mar_cik, post #12662595] Field meters placed directly above 15 kV cable trenches often read below 10 V/m and 0.2 A/m, well under limits [Cigre, 2019].
What are Poland’s legal EMF limits for homes and gardens?
Regulation of 30 Oct 2003 sets 1 000 V/m electric and 60 A/m magnetic for permanently occupied zones [Regulation 2003]. Municipal inspectors can order remediation only when measurements exceed these thresholds.
How deep must 60–110 kV cables be buried?
Standards require at least 1 m cover for >15 kV circuits [Elektroda, Reprint, post #12662742] Utilities often add 20 cm to protect against frost and excavation, so 1.2 m is common practice [PSE, 2020].
Can I force the utility to reroute or bury the line crossing my plot?
Only if the route violates the easement contract or blocks zoning-approved construction. When owners previously granted consent, courts rarely compel relocation without owner funding [Elektroda, supchem, post #13322218] Expect €60–100 per metre to convert overhead 15 kV to cable, plus easement renegotiation fees [PGE Tariff 2022].
Will the pole restrict where I can build?
Yes. Building law forbids permanent structures within the utility protection zone: 3 m horizontally from a 15 kV conductor and 4 m vertically below it [PN-EN 50341]. The underground section must stay clear of deep foundations; design a 2 m no-dig corridor over the cable [UtilityGuide, 2021].
Is radiation from my mobile phone higher than from the MV pole?
Typical phone SAR peaks at 1.6 W/kg beside your head, producing local fields above 40 000 V/m [FCC Data]. That dwarfs the 386 V/m recorded at the pole [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302]
What happens if the underground cable fails on my land?
Fault current can vaporise insulation, creating a 1–2 m steam cavity and scorched soil. Repairs require trench opening across the easement; owners receive damage compensation only for crop loss, not structural delays [Enea T&C, 2022].
How do I safely measure EMF on a prospective plot?
- Rent a calibrated 50 Hz field meter (Class 1 accuracy).
- Walk a 5 × 5 m grid, holding probe 1 m above ground.
- Record peak electric (V/m) and magnetic (A/m) values, compare with 1 000 V/m and 60 A/m limits.
This three-step survey takes under 30 minutes for a 1 000 m² site.
What if I accidentally hit the cable while digging?
Immediate arc can reach 10 kA for 0.1 s, melting shovel steel and causing severe burns. Call emergency number 991, keep 5 m away, and wait for utility crew. Insurance may deny claims if digging lacked a cable-location permit [Allianz, 2021].
Does a pole or line noticeably lower property value?
Market data show 5–15 % discounts for plots with visible MV infrastructure [RealEstatePL, 2022]. One forum user confirmed the price advantage: “Much more competitive in relation to plots without ‘intruders’” [Elektroda, zbich70, post #12698593]
