Farmers can save time, money and aggravation by consulting their electric power supplier before locating new grain bins. Requirements of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) specify the minimum distance between a grain bin and the nearest overhead power line. Building a grain bin too close to a power line may mean that it will have to be moved, often at the farmer's expense.

Adequate clearances can reduce the risk of accidental contact between power lines and tall farm equipment such as portable grain augers, elevators, or grain probing devices.

Planning Electrical Needs for Crop Drying and Storage explains NESC regulations in laymen's terms. The guide describes the clearance requirements, provides illustrations showing safe distances for each size bin, and discusses proper electrical wiring needs at the bin site. For example, a 35-foot tall bin should be placed no less than 104 feet away from the nearest power line.