The invention discloses a single-phase disconnection fault line selection method for a traditional distribution network. The method comprises the following steps: calculating the negative sequence current of each feeder by use of a symmetrical component method; when the amplitude of the negative sequence current is greater than a negative sequence setting value, performing EMD decomposition on the negative sequence current of each feeder to get an intrinsic mode component IMF at each order; performing Hilbert transform on the intrinsic mode component IMF at each order to get a corresponding instantaneous amplitude waveform; calculating the variation of the sum of instantaneous amplitudes of m cyclic waves for the intrinsic mode component IMF at the set order of each feeder before and after fault; and selecting a disconnection fault line according to the variation. The line selection criterion chosen in the invention is effective in all kinds of neutral point grounding modes. The method is not affected by load characteristics, can be used to detect a single-phase disconnection fault under a line driving force load, a non-dynamic load or a comprehensive load, and is of high reliability.