Who Handles Trees Near Power Lines? Responsibilities Explained

The utility and tree care company handles trimming and the clearance of power lines. This gives you peace of mind knowing everything is handled according to the local codes and regulations. It is crucial for homeowners to cooperate with professionals throughout the process, allowing access to their properties. Lastly, arborists will assess the health of your trees to detect potential issues, providing preventive measures to avoid power line hazards down the line.

Utility Company Responsibilities

Utility companies adhere to set laws and regulations, ensuring proper clearance between trees and power lines. However, clearance can vary depending on the voltage, as high voltage can cause fires and devastating property damage. You can expect your utility company to follow state, federal, and local clearance requirements, clearing downed lines and restoring power to your home.

Sometimes the utility or tree service can approach you directly and request to trim potentially hazardous branches on your property. It is advisable to cooperate during such instances to keep the community safe and protect you from liability issues.

Property Owner Responsibilities

While the utility company is responsible for all the power lines, you can take steps to maintain healthy and safe trees. This may entail working with a professional tree care company to ensure regular trimming and pruning, as well as scheduling risk assessments with certified arborists to identify factors that may risk premature tree removal. As a homeowner, there are steps you can take to maintain a safe outdoor space, but power line safety is the responsibility of your utility company.