We want to keep you safe while you're working near the electricity assets on our network.
Why you need a close approach consent
To keep you and others safe from potential injury, and to protect our electricity network, it’s important to stay at least four metres away from our assets.
We understand that sometimes you’ll need to get closer to our power poles, overhead lines or underground cables. To do that safely, we need to know what work you’re planning and what measures are needed to reduce the risk of harm and death.
You also have legal responsibilities when working near electricity network equipment.
Update to Close Approach Process
We have updated our close approach process for working near our electricity network. From 19 May 2025, only businesses (PCBUs) can apply for close approach consents. Individual property owners will need to engage a third-party contractor to do the work under a close approach consent on their behalf.
To explain the changes, we’ve prepared a comprehensive Close Approach Guide that covers the application process, managing electrical hazards, and your responsibilities.
When we issue you a consent, it will specify the minimum safe distances you can work and any safety measures you’ll need to follow. These are all explained in the guide.
Applying for a consent
From 19 May 2025 you'll need to:
- Apply for a close approach consent by completing and submitting the relevant form/s below
- Read and follow our Close Approach Guide
- Adhere to the safety measures specified in the consent.
A detailed user guide is also available to help you fill out the new application forms and understand the new consents.
How long does it take to get approval?
Allow up to four working days for close approach requests to be processed.
We'll contact you after we've received the application to let you know if consent has been granted and if on-site advice is required or if our mark-out service will be provided.
Close Approach Application Forms
Close Approach Guides
Need a temporary disconnection instead?
If your client wants to do maintenance near the customer service lines they own, they can request a temporary disconnection of power. (Customer service lines are the low-voltage power lines, poles and other assets owned by the customer that supply electricity to their house and other buildings on the property.)
This is a different process to the close approach process. Learn more here.