Changes to tree regulations
We’ve been working with MBIE to try and progress changes to the tree regulations. It has released a targeted consultation to ENA (and through ENA our members).
It's on the introduction of a risk-based process where EDBs can require that ‘out of zone’ trees (that pose a fall-risk to the electricity network) be removed. While these are the sorts of powers the sector has been asking for, there are some challenges for the EDBs in the proposal. We’ll work with EDBs to produce a constructive submission on how it can be made more workable.
The Minister has signalled that further proposals on changes to the tree regs are yet to come. He specifically mentions restrictions on forestry planting near lines and differentiating between residential trees and commercial forestry.
These are both areas where we proposed changes in our 2023 submission. While it’s very encouraging to see these are still on MBIE’s radar, the drip-feed of incremental changes is challenging to respond to. Nevertheless, we support these areas for further changes and are eager to assist MBIE with their policy development on these topics.
Engagement is ongoing and we’ll keep you posted.
If you are from an EDB and you'd like a copy of the MBIE proposal, get in touch with us at info@electricity.org.nz
