An optical hazard detection system is described that may be used with an aerial device. The optical hazard detection system is utilized for determining a hazard in proximity thereto. The system comprises an optical sensor and a controller. The optical sensor is configured to capture optical images. The controller is configured to acquire the optical images from the optical sensor. The controller is also configured to identify a hazard at least in part from the optical images and to establish a hazard zone to prevent the utility platform from striking the hazard. The hazard zone is within a deployable range for the aerial device.