Pole lines are designed based on materials and construction methods specified in Overhead Electrical Work, NAVFAC NFGS-16302. The following paragraphs briefly describe some of the things that are considered when designing and constructing a pole line.

1. Use the shortest possible route. Most of the time the shortest route is the least expensive. The pole line should be run as straight as possible from one point to another.

2. Follow highways and roadways as much as possible. This makes it easy to build the line and to inspect and maintain it. As much as possible, the pole line should be located on the same side of the road, and on the side that is most free of other lines and trees. When trees line the road, it might be better to locate the line a short distance away from the road. That way the trees are preserved, tree trimming is eliminated, there are no outages caused by trees falling into the line, and maintenance of the line is simplified.

3. Follow the farmers property or section lines. This is normally not a major concern in the military. However, the engineer may have to consider bomb ranges and other such areas. If railroad tracks run through the area, it is best to follow them since the path has already been cut.

4. Route in the direction of possible future loads. The route of the pole line should go as close to new load centers as possible.

5. Avoid going over hills, ridges, swamps, and bottom lands. Hills and ridges are subject to lightning storms. Swamps and bottom lands are subject to flooding. Following these routes also makes it difficult to deliver materials.

6. Avoid disrupting the environment. Taking into consideration environmental codes and regulations, the engineer should select routes that cause the least disturbance to the environment. The engineer should also consider aesthetics when reviewing possible routes.

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