Pines, macrocarpa, willows and other large-growing trees are generally used to provide shelter from the everyday elements and for your personal enjoyment. 

However, they are a problem when growing near power lines.  With changing weather patterns and frequent short, severe storms, trees near lines often cause a loss of power and dangerous situations.

Trees either falling across power lines or growing close to lines can cause power outages.  Trees and shrubs should be kept well clear of power lines. 

Greater clearance is ideal given the rapid growth of many trees and will save trimming becoming a frequent chore.  Felling unwanted trees may be a better option than trimming.

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No interest tree request form

Cutting Trees Down to Size

Don’t be tempted to do it yourself!

There are considerable safety issues around trimming and felling trees near power lines. It is extremely hazardous and requires the appropriate skills, and specialised safety equipment and procedures. The Department of Labour has issued an extensive Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Approved Code of Practice for tree work.  The code has a lengthy subsection devoted to tree maintenance around power lines.

The code specifies that you can’t trim trees near power lines, only an approved contractor can.  The message to tree-owners is simple: think twice before you arrange to trim or fell trees. The safety risks for you and your neighbours are too great. You could also be liable for any damage that occurs to the lines network or third parties in the event of an accident during tree trimming.

Call in the experts. By far the safest approach is to get in the experts with specialist skills and equipment.  You can get a list of qualified, experienced contractors operating in your areas by looking at our list of approved contractors below.

Where to Plant

If you’re considering planting trees or shrubs, the choices you make now about placement and type will save future problems. Many smaller trees and shrubs are suitable for planting near overhead lines and still provide good shelter.

Powerco suggests you look for plants that, when fully mature, will not grow above 4m high. Speak to your plant supplier for advice before purchasing plants that are to be placed underneath lines.

Approved Contractors

Thames/Valley/Coromandel, Tauranga
Asplundh - Phone 0800 4 ASPLUNDH (0800 4277 586)

Taranaki
Asplundh - Phone 0800 4 ASPLUNDH (0800 4277 586)

Wanganui
Arborco - Phone 06 349 0006

Palmerston North
Arborco - Phone 0508 ARBORCO (0508 2726 726)

Wairarapa
J & L Cummings -Phone 06 377 2282