Tree Notices & Responsibilities
The Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 set out responsibilities for tree owners and electricity line companies when trees and vegetation are near power lines. If we've contacted you about a tree on your property, this page explains what the different notices mean, what you need to do, and who is responsible for the work and associated costs.
We have responsibilities under the Regulations, including carrying out vegetation surveys, providing information, issuing notices where required and responding to hazards.
What you need to do, and who pays for the work, depends on your situation and the type of notice you've received.
Have you received a tree notice?
Start by checking the type of notice you've received. It will tell you what action is required and when you need to act.
| What it means | What you need to do | Who pays? | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hazard Warning Notice | Your vegetation is getting close to the power line and may need attention. | Monitor the situation and act before the tree reaches the growth limit zone unless stated otherwise. | This is a warning notice, so no work is required at this stage. |
| Cut or trim notice | Your tree or vegetation has entered the Growth Limit Zone and needs to be cut back. | 1. Arrange for the work to be carried out safely. 2. Tell us the time and location of the work at least 3 working days before it takes place. 3. Contact us if you areunsure about any part of the notice. | In most cases, we’ll pay for your first cut or trim notice (conditions apply). After that, you’re responsible for ongoing tree maintenance, including arranging and paying for an Alpine Energy-approved contractor where required. |
Treefall Hazard Notice (From 23rd July 2028) | We’ve assessed a tree as presenting a moderate or high risk of falling onto the network. Formal Treefall Hazard Notices cannot be issued before 23 July 2028. Before then, we may use voluntary processes to discuss hazardous trees with tree owners. | 1. Work with us to ensure the tree is removed within the timeframe set out in the notice. Removal timeframes: - Moderate hazard: 45 working days - High Hazard: 25 working days | We generally cover the reasonable cost of removing the tree and associated debris. Exceptions can apply, for example, if the tree was planted unlawfully in the low height planting zone. |
After your first cut or trim
Once your fi rst required cut or trim has been completed, you’re responsible for keeping your trees clear of the network. This includes regularly checking your trees and arranging and paying for an Alpine Energy network-approved contractor where trimming is required within 4 metres of power equipment. Being proactive and inspecting your trees can help prevent problems with the network.
If you don’t meet your responsibilities and your trees cause damage to the electricity network, you may be responsible for the resulting repair costs.
Declare no interest in a tree
In some circumstances, you can formally declare that you have no interest in a tree near our network. If we accept your declaration, we’ll cover the reasonable costs of felling the tree or trees.
These circumstances may include:
- The tree was naturally sown or
- At the time of planting, the tree owner believed the tree, when fully grown, wouldn’t interfere with power lines
If you’ve already received a Cut or Trim Notice, the no-interest notice generally needs to be given within 10 working days. From 23 July 2028, the same timeframe generally applies if you’ve received a Treefall Hazard Notice. This option is not available for trees planted in breach of the Low Height Planting Zone requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Need help?
If you’ve received a notice and aren’t sure what it means or what you need to do, contact us before arranging any work.