What should I do if there’s a tree on my property that I’m concerned about?

We only prune trees that pose a potential hazard to primary power lines. These are typically the highest (and sometimes also the second-highest) lines on a pole. We also prune trees and other vegetation to maintain EPB Fiber Optics lines, and the existing right-of-way. We prune all weak, damaged or dead limbs that hang above conductors. Pruning exceptions include low-growing trees (dogwoods, redbuds, ornamentals) and landscape quality trees less than 6 inches in diameter.

If you have a tree growing directly under power lines, we encourage you to let us remove it. We’ll cut the tree down, grind the smaller limbs, and cut the logs into fireplace lengths – all at no charge. As a property owner, you’re responsible for trees that interfere with service lines that run from a transformer pole to your home. But we’ll be happy to lower your service line to allow your tree contractor to prune and remove foliage, and then reinstall service at no charge.

A good rule of thumb is to look at the tree’s label to find its mature height, then plant it that same distance away from power lines and equipment. When you find the spot where you’d like to plant the tree, look up to see if there are any power lines or equipment overhead. And be sure to call 811 before you dig to ensure you don’t hit buried utility lines. An EPB Energy Pro can also offer advice on where, when and how to plant different varieties of trees and shrubs properly, and safely. If you’d like a free consultation with an EPB Energy Pro Arborist, please submit a request.

Trees will be pruned a minimum clearance of 10 feet from power lines. Limbs may be pruned further from higher voltage lines. Limbs overhanging lines will be pruned as high as possible. We will also eliminate weak, diseased, and dead limbs above the wires that may fall or blow into the wires.

Do not plant climbing vines near power poles or guy wires, and do not plant shrubs or vines within 3’ to the side of, or 12’ in front of, ground-mounted transformer boxes.

Our professionals, both on staff and contractors, have arboriculture certifications and extensive experience specific to the utilities industry. EPB contracts only with Certified Utility Arborists that meet strict specifications. These contractors follow the National Electric Safety Code and ANSI A-300 Guidelines as endorsed by the National Arbor Day Foundation and the International Society of Arboriculture.

Protecting a tree from becoming burned or entangled in power lines is actually for the health of the tree in the long run. This, of course, also helps prevent power outages caused by falling trees and branches. In addition, and most important, vines and trees touching lines can be hazardous. We always trim in ways that redirect new growth away from power lines. We trim only enough of a tree to prevent power lines and the public from being endangered. It's possible to prune a tree into various shapes when you prune correctly based on the tree's age and species, and a tree can remain healthy and safe for many years.

During routine pruning and removal, trees are sawn into firewood lengths, however we don’t remove stumps. Brush and debris will be cleaned up and removed or made into mulch, which we can leave at the customer’s request, before the crew leaves the area. During a power outage, our primary responsibility is to restore power as quickly as possible. We do not typically remove brush, debris or trees that are knocked down by natural causes, even if we have to saw through the downed tree to repair the damaged line.

It's best to plant shrubs, bushes or vines at least 3’ to the side of, or 12’ in front of ground-mounted transformer boxes. And never plant directly under power lines. Before you plant, look up for overhead power lines, and call 811 to ensure you won’t disrupt underground utility lines.

We coordinate the pruning of nearly 70,000 trees each year. Utilizing six foresters, 44 tree crews and 125 contract employees in the field, these expert Certified Utility Arborists carefully clear a path for power lines while maintaining a healthy, beautiful landscape. Plus, they work directly with customers to answer questions and address any issues well before work begins.

Yes. An EPB representative will come to your door a couple months before any tree pruning in your area takes place. If no one is home, we will leave a card with more information and a name and number you can call to ask any questions or get more information.

Yes. If you see foliage that could potentially interfere with your power service and would like to request a site survey, or you if have questions about your trees and would like an EPB Energy Pro Arborist to contact you, please submit a request.

If they are within 10 feet of high voltage lines and are capable of growing into power lines or equipment, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) requires that EPB prune trees to their specific guidelines for your safety and service reliability.

EPB contractors will have an EPB decal on their vehicle, and will also wear an EPB identification badge.

As a property owner, you’re responsible for trees that interfere with service lines that run from a transformer pole to your home. But we’ll be happy to lower your service line to allow your tree contractor to prune and remove foliage, and then reinstall service at no charge.

The best times of year to plant are in the Fall after the leaves fall and early Spring before the buds break. The milder temperatures enable roots to get well-established before harsh weather sets in. Early Fall planting naturally results in earlier Spring blooming of flowering trees and plants. And, cool autumn weather helps eliminate pests such as weeds, diseases and insects that can hinder new growth.

If you have a tree growing directly under power lines, we encourage you to let us remove it. We’ll cut the tree down, grind the smaller limbs, and cut the logs into fireplace lengths – all at no charge. If you see foliage that could potentially interfere with your power service and would like to request a free site survey, or you if have questions about your trees and would like an EPB Energy Pro Arborist to contact you, please submit a request.

Constantly! With thousands of miles of power lines across our service area, we must continually prune in order to keep up with tree growth. In fact, even with dozens of crews working every day, it still takes us 5-6 years to complete a single pruning cycle. Therefore, we must prune tree limbs back far enough so they don’t grow into power lines before we have an opportunity to return to your area. If you see a paint mark on your tree or received a notification of upcoming pruning, the work will be performed in the next few months.