As a landowner you are responsible for ensuring vegetation and trees do not encroach on overhead or underground electrical lines.
Clearances
Under the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003, trees must be kept at a minimum distance from power lines and electrical equipment to prevent disruption to power supply.
Tree clearances are dependent on the voltage of the overhead lines. There are two zones; Growth Limit Zone (GLZ) – the space around the power line (measured in metres) where trees must not encroach, even in windy or stormy conditions, and the Notice Zone (NZ) is one metre beyond the Growth Limit Zone.
The size of the Growth Limit Zone depends on the voltage of the lines. If your trees are encroaching on the Growth Limit Zone of that line, you could be issued with a cut or trim notice. You must respond and take the action required by the cut or trim notice or face a fine of up to $10,000.
Stay safe
Only approved vegetation contractors should be used to maintain safe clearances. Attempting to cut or trim trees yourself near power lines could result in damage, severe injury or even death.
For more information about tree trimming including safety disconnections click here
