Tree Regulations

The Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 were introduced to help ensure both the safety of the public and security of supply. They also outline the obligations of both the tree owner and the electricity lines company.

The purpose of these regulations is to protect the safety of the public and the security of electricity supply by:

• Prescribing safe distances between power lines and trees (Growth Limit Zone, Cut Back Zone & Notice Zone);
• Establishing rules for who is responsible for cutting or trimming trees close to power lines;
• Outlining liability if the rules and Regulations are not complied with; and
• Providing an arbitration system for disputes between electricity lines companies and tree owners over the operation of the regulations.

Westpower relies on its consumers to “do the right thing” and ensure that trees on their property do not grow within close proximity to any power lines.

You can view the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations by visiting : http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2003/0375/latest/DLM233...

The Growth Limit Zone, Cut Back Zone & Notice Zone

The Electricity (Hazards From Trees) Regulations 2003 state exactly how close trees can come to power lines before cutting or trimming is required. These measurements are known as zones.

1. The Growth Limit Zone is the space around a power line where trees must not encroach.
2. The Cut Back Zone is the distance measured one metre beyond the Growth Zone.
3. The Notice Zone is the distance measured two metres beyond the Growth Zone.

Only Westpower approved people/contractors are permitted to enter the ‘Westpower Consent Zone’ . See The New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances (NZECP 34:2001) for details.