Permits and Approvals

A High Load Permit

A high load permit is required if you are planning to transport loads with an overall height of 4.8 metres and higher to secure electricity supply and ensure safety to the general public.

Approval will be given based on the height of the application time frames stated below:

• Loads between 4.8m and 5.2m high allow minimum of 2 working days.
  We will check the proposed route for any potential hazards and issue a Permit.
• Loads over 5.2m to 5.9m high allow up to 5 working days.
  We will check the proposed route for any potential hazards and if the route is clear to the height required, a Permit will be issued.
• Loads 5.9m high and above will require a minimum of at least 10 working days.
  You must obtain a permit before commencing the shift. A copy of the Permit will be emailed to you, and it must be carried by the transporting vehicle.

If the route is not clear, we will arrange an escort and manage the obstructions for which a charge will apply. Please call us on 03 768 9300 if you would like an indication of costs.

Please submit a new High Load Request through the website www.powerline.co.nz

For more information detailing good practice for the safe transport of high loads through network areas is available from Electricity Engineers Association Publication “Transport of High Loads” (Guide)

Close Approach Permit

All power lines have the potential to cause serious harm or death if people directly touch, indirectly touch or even simply get too close to a conductor or line.

When you plan to work near overhead lines or power poles, it is a legal requirement that you follow the minimum safe distances as set down by the New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice.

All work activity must be kept at least 4 metres from overhead lines. If you need to work closer to our overhead lines you must obtain approval, in the form of a Close Approach Permit.

A Close Approach Permit is required if you:

• plan to work within 4 meters of overhead power lines.
• plan to dig within 5 meters of any pole, pole support or power cable (depending on the depth of excavations, you may need additional pole supports to prevent poles collapsing).
• plan to trim or fell trees near overhead power lines.

Other Requirements – Using mobile plant

Where any mobile plant is being used in proximity to overhead power lines, the operator of the machinery/vehicle shall affix an approved warning notice in a conspicuous place as near as practicable to the operator’s position.

The notice shall legibly state – “WARNING, KEEP CLEAR OF POWER LINES”. Westpower has Warning Labels available free of charge.

Please download the Close Approach Permit and email to controller@westpower.co.nz