Tamil Nadu Power Fences (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2023
The Government of Tamil Nadu, through the Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department, issued the Tamil Nadu Power Fences (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2023 under G.O. Ms. No. 104, Environment, Climate Change and Forests (FR.5), dated 3 July 2023. The rules require permission and registration for power fences within 5 kilometres of a Reserve Forest boundary, establish inspections and renewal requirements, and prescribe technical safety specifications.
What the rules govern
The Tamil Nadu Power Fences (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2023 regulate fences that pass electric current and can shock a person or animal. A property includes land or a building, and an owner includes anyone who owns, possesses or manages the property. Power includes solar powered and battery operated systems.
The rules particularly affect owners who want to install, or have already installed, a power fence within 5 kilometres of a Reserve Forest boundary.
Permission for a new power fence
An owner must obtain permission from the District Forest Officer before erecting a power fence within 5 kilometres of a Reserve Forest boundary.
Key requirements include:
- The owner must apply in Form I.
- The property must be inspected with an officer not below the rank of Assistant Divisional Engineer of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board.
- Permission may cover the full property or a smaller extent, depending on topography and animal trails.
- The applicant must be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard before rejection or permission for a smaller extent.
- After permission, the owner must erect the fence and apply for registration within 90 days, using Form III with the undertaking in Form IV and a copy of the permission.
- The District Forest Officer must pass the relevant order within 45 days of receiving the application.
Existing fences, registration and renewal
An owner who already had a power fence when the Tamil Nadu Power Fences (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2023 came into force must ensure compliance with the Schedule and apply for registration within 60 days.
A Certificate of Registration is valid for three years. Renewal must be requested from the District Forest Officer three months before expiry. Defects may have to be corrected before a certificate is issued.
Inspection and technical safeguards
Registered power fences must be jointly inspected once a fortnight by the Forest Range Officer and the local Tamil Nadu Electricity Board Foreman. A log book must be maintained.
The Schedule includes requirements for certified energizers, battery and solar systems, fence materials, posts, insulation, earthing, voltage testing and emergency access. Among other limits, the energizer must use a battery not exceeding 12 volts DC, peak output must not exceed 10KV, and emergency shut off or disconnect devices must be installed.
Appeal rights
A person affected by the District Forest Officer's permission decision may appeal to the Conservator of Forests with territorial jurisdiction within 30 days of receiving the decision.
This summary is generated from the source document to help you find what is relevant. The PDF above is authoritative. For advice on your own property, use LandLens One or speak to a qualified professional.
Common questions
Do I need permission for a power fence near a Reserve Forest?
Yes. A power fence within 5 kilometres of a Reserve Forest boundary cannot be erected without permission from the District Forest Officer.
What if a power fence was already installed on my property?
The owner must ensure that the fence meets the Schedule specifications and apply to the District Forest Officer for registration within 60 days from the date the rules came into force.
How long is a power fence registration valid?
A Certificate of Registration is valid for three years. The renewal application must be made three months before it expires.
Can I appeal if permission is refused or limited to part of my property?
Yes. An appeal may be made to the Conservator of Forests having territorial jurisdiction within 30 days from receipt of the District Forest Officer's decision.
