If any work is performed within six feet [1.83 meters] of any high voltage overhead line, or if mechanical equipment or machinery used near high voltage overhead lines is capable of motion to within ten feet [3.05 meters] of any high voltage overhead line, the person responsible for the work shall notify the operator of the high voltage overhead line of the intent to work near the line. The work may be pursued only after the person and the operator of the line have provided protection for endangered persons by mechanical or insulated barriers, by de-energizing and grounding the line, or by temporary relocation of the line. The person working near the overhead line must pay the operator actual expenses necessary to meet the requirements of this chapter, except that the operator of the line is responsible for the cost if the line was installed closer to an existing fixture or structure than the minimum clearance required by the latest edition of the national electrical safety code, as adopted by the public service commission. The operator of the line need not take the precautions until the person working near the line pays the necessary expenses. Within five business days after payment of those expenses, or as otherwise agreed upon in writing by the person responsible for the work, the operator of the line shall complete the arrangements for protection of endangered persons.