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.
Our arborists use lateral pruning methods; cutting tree branches back to the lateral or parent limb. Lateral pruning is healthier for trees because it helps allow the tree's natural defenses to seal the cut and prevent the spread of disease or decay. In addition, we use directional pruning that redirects the growth of the tree away from power lines. These popular pruning methods were developed by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), and approved by the National Arborist Association, the National Arbor Day Foundation and the Metro Tree Ordinance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
