Source: New Zealand Government
Stronger rules about the planting, maintenance and removal of trees near power lines will better protect New Zealanders’ homes and businesses from sudden power outages, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.
Regulations already provide for a zone around electricity lines that must be kept clear of vegetation. Those are now being extended so that:
Power line owners can assess the likelihood and potential impact of a tree falling on their lines. If a tree is considered a risk, it will be removed at the line owner’s expense.
In rural areas (other than forests or shelter belts) trees cannot be planted in a new low height planting zone – either side of a power line – unless their anticipated height at maturity is less than their distance from the line. This means that if a mature tree fell over, it would not hit the power lines.
Landowners will be responsible for costs associated with trimming or removing trees that breach the new low height planting zone.
“This Government respects property owner’s rights and has balanced those with the need to protect communities from avoidable power outages, and protect power lines from costly and disruptive damage,” Mr Brown says.
“The changes have been made following extensive consultation including with groups representing forestry, farming, Māori and arboriculturists’ interests, as well as the electricity industry.
“Regulations were strengthened two years ago creating a ‘clear to the sky’ zone to prevent vegetation hanging over lines. These additional regulations around responsibility for managing the risks posed by trees will support a more reliable electricity supply for all consumers.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/29/stronger-rules-to-protect-power-lines-from-trees/