Dunedin City Council Section Clearing Regulations

• Vegetation must be cut back to the edge of footpaths and road boundaries.

• A setback of approximately 500 mm behind kerbs and water channels helps protect drainage systems.

• Minimum vertical clearances of 2.5 metres above footpaths and 4.5 metres above roads must be maintained.

• Growth must not block sightlines at intersections or driveways.

• Where vegetation exceeds permitted limits, DCC may issue a compliance notice allowing 28 days for corrective action.

• If the required works are not completed, the Council may arrange for clearance and recover the associated costs from the property owner.
  

• Appendix A1.3 of the 2GP identifies over 1,200 scheduled trees and groups across Dunedin.

• Scheduled trees require resource consent before pruning, alteration, or removal.

• Protection applies once a tree is listed in the schedule, regardless of its size.

• The Council may contribute up to $250 toward authorised maintenance of protected trees.

• Emergency removal of dangerous trees must be reported to DCC within 10 working days.

• Work within 4 metres of overhead power lines must comply with Aurora Energy safety requirements.

• The Stormwater Quality Bylaw was adopted on 8 December 2020 and came into effect on 1 February 2021.

• Stormwater systems must carry rainwater only and not contaminated wastewater.

• Prohibited discharges include paint residue, oils, solvents, sand-blasting waste, pesticides, pool water, and contaminated trench water.

• Green waste, soil, and sediment must not enter roadside drains.

• Breaches of the bylaw may result in enforcement action, infringement notices, cost recovery, or fines of up to $20,000.
  

• Green waste and vegetation should be taken to approved facilities such as the Green Island Resource Recovery area.

• Construction materials, including concrete, cladding, and steel, cannot be placed in kerbside recycling.

• The existing Green Island landfill is planned for closure, with a new Class 1 facility under development at Smooth Hill.

• Accumulated waste or uncontrolled overgrowth may be classified as a public health nuisance.

• Where a nuisance exists, DCC may issue a directive requiring remedial clearing.
  

Key compliance principles include:

• Maintaining required setbacks and vertical clearances.

• Confirming scheduled tree status before removal.

• Protecting stormwater systems from contamination.

• Disposing of green waste through approved facilities.

• Responding promptly to compliance notices or safety concerns.

Official resources for further reference:

• Dunedin City Council - Roads, verges and vegetation maintenance
• Dunedin City Council - Stormwater Quality Bylaw
• Dunedin City Council - Second Generation District Plan (2GP)
• Aurora Energy - Trees near power lines guidance

Note: Regulations and guidance are subject to change. Always review official council and utility websites for the most current information.