Close approach consent
When should you apply for a close approach consent?
A close approach consent is required for any of the following activities near MainPower network assets:
- Working within 4 metres of overhead power lines
- Working above overhead power lines
- Trimming near overhead power lines
- Digging within 5 metres of any pole or stay wire supporting an overhead power line
- Digging within 12 metres of any tower supporting an overhead power line
- Digging near underground power cables or communication cables
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How to apply
To apply for a close approach consent, the responsible person on site must complete (and pass) MainPower’s online training course and assessment. We strongly recommend anyone else involved with your close approach work also undertakes this assessment.
It’s free to apply for consents, but depending on the consent type, if other services such as disconnection, isolation, or escorts are required, costs may apply.
Electrical code of practice and safety regulations
A person who carries out any construction, building, excavation, or other work on or near an electric line must maintain safe distance.
Regulation 17 of the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010 requires that a person who carries out any construction, building, excavation, or other work on or near an electric line must maintain safe distances in accordance with New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances (NZECP 34:2001).
Minimum safe distances have been set by NZECP 34 primarily to protect persons, property, vehicles and mobile plant from harm or damage from electrical hazards.
Key requirements of NZECP 34 include:
- The distance between any live overhead electric line and any part of any mobile plant or load carried shall be “AT LEAST 4.0 METRES”, unless the operator has received written consent from the overhead electric line owner allowing a reduced distance.
- The distance between any exposed live parts and persons (including tools held) shall be “AT LEAST 4.0 METRES”, unless the person has received written consent from the owner of the live parts allowing a reduced distance.
- Mobile plant or any load carried shall not operate above the conductors of any overhead electric line unless the operator has received written consent from the overhead electric line owner to work above the overhead electric line.
Start here
Before applying, read the “Close Approach to Power Lines” brochure to learn about your responsibilities and to prepare for the assessment.
We’re here to help
If you need some assistance or advice, please get in touch with our team.
