Editing Openai/68503d6e-9400-800b-a15a-dd25d536e24f (section)

=== Assistant: There is no universally mandated "safe distance" from high-tension power lines, but several benchmarks are commonly ref… ===
There is no universally mandated "safe distance" from high-tension power lines, but several benchmarks are commonly referenced based on health, electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, fire risk, and noise/vibration. The key factors are:

==== - High-voltage transmission lines (typically 345 kV to 765 kV, like Oncor's Bell County East line) emit low-frequency electromagnetic fields. ====
* Most health agencies (e.g., WHO, CDC) do not confirm causality between EMF exposure and cancer, but they acknowledge a potential association with childhood leukemia at chronic exposure above 0.3–0.4 µT (3–4 mG).

===== |     |     | =====
| --- | --- |
|     |     |
|     |     |
|     |     |
|     |     |

➤ At 150 feet, you could still be exposed to 10–20 mG, which is higher than ambient levels.

🧠 Interpretation: While not legally unsafe, many researchers and health-conscious planners recommend a minimum of 300–500 feet from major transmission lines for long-term residential exposure, especially for families with young children.

==== - Fire danger zones are a concern in dry areas like Central Texas. ====
* Power lines can arc in storms or extreme conditions; safe design typically assumes a minimum of 100–150 ft right-of-way, but actual danger in catastrophic failure could extend well beyond that.
* Falling conductors or structural collapse (rare but possible in extreme weather) can reach 200+ ft depending on span and tower height.

==== - Audible corona noise and visual impact can extend up to 500 feet. ====
* Property values are often reduced 10%–30% for homes within 200 feet of a 345+ kV line.
* A line within 150 feet of your home is well within the impact zone for marketability and use concerns.

==== While not binding, many U.S. planning agencies and developers: ====
* Avoid building homes within 200–500 feet of transmission lines over 230 kV
* Require right-of-way clearances of 150+ feet for 345–765 kV lines
* Use 300–400 feet as a conservative buffer in new development designs

===== |     |     | =====
| --- | --- |
|     |     |
|     |     |
|     |     |
|     |     |

===== You are within the range of impact for: =====
* Elevated EMF exposure
* Audible/visual nuisance
* Significant property devaluation
* Possible safety concerns

This fact strengthens your PUCT intervention and may support a takings claim or higher compensation if the line proceeds.

Would you like help drafting a section for your intervention that explains why 150 feet is unacceptably close based on EMF, safety, and marketability evidence?