A parliamentary question regarding Western Power's guidelines for vegetation clearing around powerlines, including clearing widths, contractor guidelines, communication with landowners, and vegetation height policies. The Minister's response refers to incorporated documents detailing specific guidelines and procedures.

AnsweredQoN 448Legislative Council
Asked
22 June 2004
Portfolio
Energy

QuestionView source ↗

(1) What are Western Powers guidelines for the clearing of trees and vegetation under or adjacent to powerlines? (2) What is the width of any such clearing required by Western Power under its guidelines? (3) What guidelines are set out for contractors engaged by Western Power to carry out this work in country areas? (4) What are the requirements for contractors to communicate with the owners of private land before commencing work? (5) Is it now Western Power’s policy to clear all vegetation under or near powerlines irrespective of height? Hon TOM STEPHENS

AnswerView source ↗

(1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
(2) What is the width of any such clearing required by Western Power under its guidelines? (3) What guidelines are set out for contractors engaged by Western Power to carry out this work in country areas? (4) What are the requirements for contractors to communicate with the owners of private land before commencing work? (5) Is it now Western Power’s policy to clear all vegetation under or near powerlines irrespective of height? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
(3) What guidelines are set out for contractors engaged by Western Power to carry out this work in country areas? (4) What are the requirements for contractors to communicate with the owners of private land before commencing work? (5) Is it now Western Power’s policy to clear all vegetation under or near powerlines irrespective of height? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
(4) What are the requirements for contractors to communicate with the owners of private land before commencing work? (5) Is it now Western Power’s policy to clear all vegetation under or near powerlines irrespective of height? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
(5) Is it now Western Power’s policy to clear all vegetation under or near powerlines irrespective of height? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
(1)-(5) I do not know what has come over the Minister for Energy, but he is providing very fulsome replies to the Opposition. I seek leave to have the answer and its attachments incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
The following material was incorporated - 1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
1. These are contained in specific instructions and guidelines and have many factors that must be weighed up prior to judgment based on tree characteristics and clearance zones for specific power lines that must be kept clear until the next pruning/removing cycle. 2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
2. This depends on the voltage of the lines, the distance between support points (poles/towers) and an assessment of the trees. [See Attachment 1.] 3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
3. Contractors work to a guideline but are also given specific details in each package of work. [See Attachment 1.] 4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
4. From the internal guidelines: Naturally Occurring Trees for which Western Power has taken Responsibility Western Power is legally authorised to enter private property without notice and trim the trees. For courtesy and good public relations it is recommended a notice be sent to the land occupier informing them of Western Power’s intention to cut or clear trees. This gives the land occupier time to consider doing the work if they wish. Western Power will not always be able to give notification as the occupier or owner is not always easy to contact. Contact should be made at the initial inspection stage but, as matter of courtesy, contact must be attempted on the day that work is to be done by the personnel or contractors undertaking the work. Note Notify where practicable and give the occupier a chance to respond. Trees that are the Responsibility of Occupiers When property owners/occupiers or local government authorities do not manage their vegetation as required, Western Power may perform the management, according to current standards, and charge the land occupier. The Act currently requires Western Power to give at least three days notice to a property occupier and thereafter enough time to make representations as to the manner in which the work should be effected. To be practical, Western Power provides a 30day notice for trees near power lines up to and including 33kV before going on to the property and completing the work, although this can be reduced in emergencies. [See Attachment 2 on page 3993.] 5. No. Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]
Attachment 1 Minimum Clearances for Power Lines in all Areas The minimum clearances required between trees and power lines shall comply with the vertical and horizontal distances as shown in Table 1 - Clearances From Power Lines These are the MINIMUM requirements at all times. Work is carried out in the Management Zone to maintain at least these minimum clearances until the next cycle of vegetation management in the area. If any vegetation is noted within the Clearance Zone it may be cut under the emergency provisions and the occupier responsible may be billed for this work. PLEASE NOTE: In Areas Prone To Cyclones All Clearance Zones Should Be Doubled. Also, no vegetation is allowed to grow above transmission lines and vegetation that grows higher than 3 metres under a transmission line is generally removed in all but urban areas. [See attachments 1A and 2 on pages 3991-3993.]

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