Based on the geological conditions of gas in the ultra-thick coal seam under the mining of the upper protective layer, comprehensive theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, engineering practice and other methods were used to study the distribution characteristics of lateral stress in the goaf, the variation law of outburst risk prediction indicators, and the reasonable location of the goaf roadway. The results indicate that there is a stress recovery effect in the fractured rock mass after the mining of the upper protective layer, and after the stress recovery, the peak lateral stress in the goaf will move towards the direction of the goaf; Based on the test results of coal outburst prediction indicators at different distances from the side of the goaf, sufficient pressure relief discharge area, effective pressure relief discharge area, and hazardous area were divided. Combined with engineering analogy, numerical simulation results, and the need to isolate gas in the goaf, a width of 5~7m was determined for the coal pillar along the goaf; After adjustment, the maximum values of outburst prediction indicators and return air gas concentration during tunnel excavation were 0.16mL/(g·min1/2) and 0.22%, respectively, with a decrease of 66% and 35.3% compared to before adjustment, ensuring the safety of roadway excavation and verifying the rationality of retaining coal pillars along the goaf.