New Rules for Trees Near Power Lines
The Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 were updated in June 2026, with the amended regulations coming into force on 23 July 2026. The changes take effect in stages over the following two years.
The changes introduce new rules for trees and vegetation near power lines, with different requirements taking effect over the next two years. The changes are designed to help protect public safety and the security of electricity supply.
The key changes
17 October 2026
Clear to the sky expands to non-urban power lines at 11kV or below.23 July 2027
New Low Height Planting Zone restrictions apply to new tree planting in certain areas.23 July 2028
We can issue formal Treefall Hazard Notices for trees assessed as a moderate or high hazard.
Clear to the sky
For some power lines, vegetation must be kept clear around and above the line, rather than simply trimmed back from the sides. This is known as clear to the sky.
Clear-to-the-sky requirements already apply to higher-voltage lines. From 17 October 2026, they will also apply to non-urban power lines at 11kV or below. This helps prevent vegetation from being trimmed into a tunnel around the power line, where branches can still grow or fall onto the network.
What does this mean for you?
If you have trees near a power line, you may need to consider vegetation growing above the line as well as beside it. If you're unsure whether clear-to-the-sky requirements apply to your trees, contact us before doing any work.
Low Height Planting Zone
From 23 July 2027, new planting restrictions will apply within a 24-metre Low Height Planting Zone around power lines in applicable areas outside urban areas.
The restriction means you must not plant a tree if you have reasonable grounds to believe its mature height will be greater than its distance from the power line.
What this means for you
Check where power lines are before planting and choose trees that can grow safely in the available space.
Treefall Hazard Notices
From 23 July 2028, we can issue a formal Treefall Hazard Notice where a tree within the Treefall Hazard Zone has been assessed as a moderate or high hazard.
A Treefall Hazard Zone extends 24 metres horizontally from the edge of the Growth Limit Zone. Trees within this area may be assessed for the risk of falling onto the network. Being within the zone does not automatically mean a tree is hazardous or needs to be removed.
The assessment must include written advice from a suitably qualified and experienced arborist.
What this means for you:
If you receive a Treefall Hazard Notice, it will set out what needs to happen and the timeframe for removal.
What stays the same?
The existing requirements for managing vegetation near power lines continue to apply.
You are still responsible for managing trees on your property and keeping them clear of the network where required.
If you are planning to plant, trim or remove a tree near a power line, make sure you understand the requirements before you start.
Need help?
If you're unsure how the changes affect a tree on your property, contact us before planting or carrying out any work.