The First Cut or Trim Notice, issued by Horizon Networks to the tree owner, differs from all subsequent notices because Horizon Networks meets the cost (provided no prior agreement is in place and provided the tree owner grants access to the site). Subsequent tree clearance work will be the tree owner’s responsibility.
Under the tree regulations the responsibility for trimming the trees is yours, if one or more of the following criteria apply:
Please read the back page of the notice as there are several important points about the tree regulations that you need to know, including the following:
Refer Regulation 14, Electricity (Hazard from Trees) Regulations.
Failure to cut or trim your trees in the specified time frame may result in Horizon Networks completing the necessary work at your expense, to remove any immediate hazard to persons, property or electricity conductors.
Horizon Networks will recover any amount payable from the tree owner that may include:
Cutting and trimming trees in the vicinity of power lines is dangerous. Touching the live power line or a tree close to the line, can result in serious injury or even death by electrocution.
Under the electricity regulations, no person is permitted within four metres of a power line without approval. In the Eastern Bay of Plenty region, this approval can only be granted by Horizon Networks.
An approved contractor must be used if any part of the tree is within four metres of the power lines. Remember… no DIY tree trimming near power lies. Use an approved contractor.
CALL HORIZON NETWORKS FIRST | 0800 467 496
Code | Description | Code | Description |
ST | Side Trim | FT | Fell Tree |
HR | Height Reduction | DT | Dismantle Tree |
SH | Side and Height | NA | No Action Required |
The above table explains the action codes that may appear on the notice.
Overhead Line | Notice Zone | Growth Limit Zone |
33kV - High Voltage | 3.5 metres | 2.5 metres |
11kV - High Voltage | 2.6 metres | 1.6 metres |
400V/230V - High Voltage | 1.5 metres | ½ metre |
Note:
1. The above distances are from power lines.
2. Distances must be maintained under all conditions, e.g. high wind.
3. Low voltage is the power line between the house/building and Horizon Networks’ transformer.
It is important to realise that larger trees located outside the minimum safe distance from power lines can still fall through the lines. Any work that occurs within four metres of power lines requires Horizon Networks consent.
Think before you plant your trees. Serious consideration should be given to the species and placement of trees on your property to ensure they don’t interfere with the power lines now and in the future.
Remember – that lovely little shrub you planted may become a five metre monster in a few years!