Safe Practices for Trimming Trees Close to Power Lines
- Alerting residents As a first step of the tree trimming process, residents of the area around the trees should be duly informed and put-up road signs where they need be. ...
- Inform the electric utility company ...
- Assess the area and the weather ...
- Check the structural integrity of trees or branches. ...
- Use the right tools and clothing for the job. ...
How do you prune trees near power lines?
Since the wind or snow can break branches growing near or above power lines, pruning should always be done to direct them to grow away from the wires. You can achieve this by directional pruning. Directional pruning involves removal and reduction cuts. This is the most recommended way to prune your trees.
Can I cut down a tree near power lines in Massachusetts?
If the tree is located on public property, then it’s up to the power company to remove (or trim) it. Utility companies will often ask homeowners for their permission to remove trees near power or utility lines that they consider potentially dangerous. According to Massachusetts tree cutting laws, the utility companies need to contact you first.
What is it called when you cut down trees around power lines?
Pruning tree branches away from around power lines is usually called line clearing. You may also hear other terms used, such as: Brush and tree clearing. No matter what name you use, this type of work has standards that are designed to keep utility infrastructure safe from conflicts. How are trees trimmed around power lines?
Why do I need to trim tree limbs on touching power lines?
Tree limbs on touching power lines need to be trimmed to avoid the danger of being electrocuted. Responsibility depends on a few factors. GoTreeQuotes
What is directional pruning?
How to keep a tree clear of a tree?
What is the best way to prune a tree?
Why are there stubs on my tree?
How to prevent conflicts between trees and power lines?
Why are trees and power lines important?
Why are power lines out?
See 4 more
About this website
Can I trim a tree branch touching a power line?
Remember: Trimming trees within 10 feet of a power line can be fatal. Never trim branches or limbs near a power line. It's the law: only OSHA-certified line clearance workers are authorized to trim near power lines.
Whose responsibility is it to trim trees around power lines?
Trimming trees and vegetation around the utility's power line that connects a person's home to the utility pole is generally viewed as being the responsibility of the homeowner. This power line is called the “service drop.”
How do you remove tree branches from power lines?
0:106:30Removing Branches Down On Power Lines - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNever done it with like sticks off pop and snap run - I've never done it cow he collects my bed keptMoreNever done it with like sticks off pop and snap run - I've never done it cow he collects my bed kept wondering why was shopping I'm like ah.
Who trims trees around telephone lines?
If you're one of the many homeowners with an overhead powerline on your property, you might be wondering: is it your responsibility to keep those lines clear of trees? Or is that your utility company's job? The answer, it turns out, is that both you and your utility share some responsibility.
What happens if trees touch power lines?
“Trees conduct electricity and can create a safety hazard if limbs grow too close to electric lines.” Be sure that no one climbs a tree near power lines. If branches are touching the wires, the tree could be energized. Even branches not touching power lines could become energized if a child's weight is added.
Can you touch power lines house?
Misconception #2: Power lines are insulated, so they're safe to touch. This is a common misconception that many people have about power lines. Power lines are not insulated and you should always avoid contact with them. It is quite possible for people to get electrocuted if you touch power lines.
Can you move a branch off a power line?
Under no circumstances should you try and remove a branch or tree from a power line by yourself. Power companies have employees that are specifically trained to do this and have special equipment to protect them from electrical shock.
Who is responsible for trimming trees near power lines Vic?
Trees on your property must be kept clear of powerlines and the home occupier is responsible for this. You are responsible for the cutting of any trees on your property that may interfere with your own electric service line or private electric line, or a private electric line on an adjoining property.
Who is responsible for trimming trees near power lines Qld?
Land owners are responsible for keeping trees on their property safely clear from wires that connect to homes and property, including private mains. Only licensed contractors should trim trees around the electricity network.
Who is responsible for overhanging branches?
Establishing Ownership of Trees The tree belongs to the person upon whose land it has originally grown. Even if its branches or, worse still, its roots have begun to grow over or into a neighbour's territory, it belongs to the landowner where the tree was originally planted.
Why do trees grow around powerlines?
Electricity travels on high-voltage power lines high above the ground. However, electricity, like water, seeks the most direct path to the ground through nearby objects. Just like lightning, electric current in a high-voltage power line may seek to reach the ground by jumping, or arcing, to a tall-growing tree.
Why are trees planted under power lines?
Their purpose is to replace important plants for wildlife in areas where brush and tree removal can leave an area bare. Planting restrictions for trees and other vegetation vary widely for different types of utility power lines— electric transmission, electric distribution and gas pipelines.
Who is responsible for trimming trees near power lines Vic?
Trees on your property must be kept clear of powerlines and the home occupier is responsible for this. You are responsible for the cutting of any trees on your property that may interfere with your own electric service line or private electric line, or a private electric line on an adjoining property.
Does Georgia Power trim trees?
Trees are pruned/removed by professional tree contractors on behalf of Georgia Power. Georgia Power prunes trees according to standards that are developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Learn more at georgiapower.com/trees.
Who is responsible for tree limbs on power lines Texas?
Trees near power lines need to be trimmed by either yourself or your utility company to about a 15-foot minimum distance. If the tree is on your property then it's your responsibility to have it trimmed. If it is on or partially on public land it's up to the power company.
Who is responsible for trimming trees near power lines Qld?
Land owners are responsible for keeping trees on their property safely clear from wires that connect to homes and property, including private mains. Only licensed contractors should trim trees around the electricity network.
TREE PRUNING SPECIFICATIONS - Find RFP
U The contractor is required to spend sufficient time on each individual tree to ensure that these problems can be avoided. The City is interested in having quality pruning work rather than quick, careless pruning.
PG&E Clearcuts Power Lines | Sierra Club
Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is planning to clear cut wide swaths of trees surrounding power lines in an aggressive program that claims to address wildfire hazards as a part of their Fire Safety Zone work.
What is directional pruning?
Directional pruning is an alternative to topping that leaves trees healthier and ultimately reduces line clearing costs. In directional pruning, also called natural pruning or the "Shigo method" (after a well-known tree researcher), only branches that head toward the utility lines (or other obstructions) are pruned. Those that are growing down or out away from the wires are left alone to continue their growth. Also, no stubs are left since branches are always pruned at the point where they reach another branch or at a "crotch". Such pruning cuts heal well and minimize sprouting and decay when properly made.
How to keep a tree clear of a tree?
Utility lines traditionally have been kept clear of tree branches by topping, also called hedging or shearing. In this method, the entire crown of the tree is cut back to a certain distance below the wires, much like the shearing of a hedge. Little time is spent making proper pruning cuts so this method can be fairly fast. Unfortunately, many stubs are left on the tree because most of the cuts are made between the points where branches meet. Sprouts usually grow out quickly from the stub and the old branch becomes rotten below the stub cut. So in one or two years, instead of clear lines and a healthy tree, we end up with sprouts back in the lines and an unhealthy tree that is fast on its way to becoming a hazard. Line clearing costs rise and the trees need to be topped heavier the next time to remove the rot. This vicious cycle is repeated until the tree is dead or gone.
What is the best way to prune a tree?
Directional pruning works best if started when a tree is young and may not work on trees that have been topped many times. Such trees often are too rotten and poorly formed to benefit. Trees with crowns that spread are the most easily pruned. Conifers and other trees with strong central leaders or trunks are more difficult to train with this method.
Why are there stubs on my tree?
Unfortunately, many stubs are left on the tree because most of the cuts are made between the points where branches meet. Sprouts usually grow out quickly from the stub and the old branch becomes rotten below the stub cut.
How to prevent conflicts between trees and power lines?
Planting Precautions. The best way to prevent conflicts between trees and power lines is to plant trees in the correct location. Though some large trees grow under power lines naturally, many are planted there because people do not realize how large they will get.
Why are trees and power lines important?
Trees and power lines are both important assets for our communities. Trees provide beauty, shade, wildlife habitat, and wind protection, while power lines bring us electricity for lights, heat, and appliances. Unfortunately, trees and power lines often end up in conflict. Many power outages are caused by trees that have grown into the lines.
Why are power lines out?
Many power outages are caused by trees that have grown into the lines. Trees growing into power lines cause increased line clearing costs . The pruning done during line clearing may also decrease tree health and cause trees to become dangerous. Fortunately, modern power line pruning techniques have been developed that result in healthier, ...
What to do if a tree crashes into a power line?
Employ a professional tree-removal service if you have any concerns about the tree crashing into the power lines when felling it. Always use safety glasses and gloves when operating a chainsaw.
How to sever a tree trunk with cable?
Attach the cable to another large anchoring tree that is not in the direction you’re felling the tree. Use a chainsaw to sever the tree at its base.
How far away from power lines can you cut down trees?
Cutting down trees near power lines can be a dangerous and laborious task. If the tree’s branches are within 5 to 10 feet of a power line, many power companies require you to contact them before pruning or felling the tree. Hook a 3/8-inch cable as high as possible to the tree.
Is it dangerous to cut down trees near power lines?
Cutting down trees near power lines can be a dangerous and laborious task. If the tree is touching the power lines, attempting to cut it down can be deadly. The most important step you can take when attempting to cut down trees near power lines is to contact your local power company before taking any action. If your power company gives you the okay ...
Can you cut down a tree that is touching a power line?
Never attempt to cut down a tree that is touching power lines. Contact your local power company instead.
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How does voltage drop in a tree?
If there is a complete circuit through the tree and through the ground about the tree back to the power source, then current will flow in the ground and there will be a voltage drop across the ground whose magnitude depends upon how much current is flowing and the resistance of the ground. If you happen to be standing on the ground where current is flowing, then there could be a higher voltage on the ground under one foot than under your other foot. If the voltage drop is not too great and you are wearing shoes with insulated soles, still no problem. If you are barefoot, you are more likely to feel the voltage.
What happens if voltage drops on shoe soles?
If the voltage difference is large enough to break down the insulation of your shoe soles, then you would surely get a shock. However that large a voltage drop would probably correspond to a large fault current, that would trip the power company's protective circuits. And it might well have first set the tree on fire or burned away the branch and "cleared the fault." And you might be dead by then. Lots of unknowns here depending on the exact circumstances, but not a sure hazard for you in all cases.
How many volts is a power line?
In the US, that is generally 240 Volts. If the power line is not properly insulated, e.g. has weathering cracks in it or has been damaged, you will receive anywhere from a mild to nasty shock or possibly die. It all depends on the current flowing through your body, which depends on how well you are connected to the ground (wet, dry, insulated etc).
What is the name of the power line that runs through the house?
The power line leading to your house is called a Service Drop. In the U.S. the Service Drop Conductor is insulated and it is only 120/240 volts. You can trim the tree branch touching your Service Drop. Just be careful not to damage the conductor.
What could go wrong with insulation?
Since you didn’t give a full description or provide a picture here are some of the risks: 1. If you start cutting and it lies on the line you might get a shock. The insulation may be worn or crumbling exposing the conductor.
What happens when you fall off a ladder?
When you are shocked while on a ladder, you often fall from the ladder and hit your head on pavement. Head trauma caused the death. Flash burns to the face can also be deadly, particularly if you inhale sharply from being startled. Sucking in hot plasma from a short can sear the lungs causing you to asphyxiate.
How does current flow through a tree?
Now, in order for current to flow through the tree, there has to be a complete circuit from the power source to the wire to the branch to the ground and back to the power source. Just because the tree is in the ground doesn't mean there is a complete circuit. It depends on how the power source is grounded and how far away it is from the tree.
Who is responsible for tree branches on power lines?
Electric utilities companies are the ones responsible for trimming trees that are touching power lines. The National Electrical Safety Code requires them to do so.
How much does it cost to trim a tree?
This is when you just require a moderate number of branches to be taken off. Large trees of 30 to 50 feet tall should cost you somewhere around $500 to $1200. A much larger tree of up to 100 feet fall might cost you up to $2000. As stated earlier, the cost of branch trimming varies on a number of things.
How often do you have to cut a tree?
Normally have trees near power lines, the utility company will be responsible for cutting them when they do the rounds every 6 – 12 months. But if it is touching the service line to your house, you will need to manage the tree yourself.
How much does it cost to cut down a tree near a power line?
If you are concerned about the size, small trees near a power line between 15 to 20 feet tall would cost you somewhere between $250 and $525.
How far away from a tree can you put a power line?
In order to prevent this, ensure all the trees are at a safe distance of 10 – 15 feet. This clearance allows for the sagging of new lines and the movement of trees in the wind.
What happens when a tree is in contact with a power line?
When a tree is in contact or comes close enough to a power line, it can be energized. This can be very dangerous as it may lead to electrocution to anyone touching it or can cause the tree to catch fire.
What is the best way to prune a tree?
Directional pruning involves removal and reduction cuts. This is the most recommended way to prune your trees. You should deter from using methods such as ‘topping’ as they affect the tree’s health. Topping promotes wood decay and shortens a tree’s lifespan.
What is directional pruning?
Directional pruning is an alternative to topping that leaves trees healthier and ultimately reduces line clearing costs. In directional pruning, also called natural pruning or the "Shigo method" (after a well-known tree researcher), only branches that head toward the utility lines (or other obstructions) are pruned. Those that are growing down or out away from the wires are left alone to continue their growth. Also, no stubs are left since branches are always pruned at the point where they reach another branch or at a "crotch". Such pruning cuts heal well and minimize sprouting and decay when properly made.
How to keep a tree clear of a tree?
Utility lines traditionally have been kept clear of tree branches by topping, also called hedging or shearing. In this method, the entire crown of the tree is cut back to a certain distance below the wires, much like the shearing of a hedge. Little time is spent making proper pruning cuts so this method can be fairly fast. Unfortunately, many stubs are left on the tree because most of the cuts are made between the points where branches meet. Sprouts usually grow out quickly from the stub and the old branch becomes rotten below the stub cut. So in one or two years, instead of clear lines and a healthy tree, we end up with sprouts back in the lines and an unhealthy tree that is fast on its way to becoming a hazard. Line clearing costs rise and the trees need to be topped heavier the next time to remove the rot. This vicious cycle is repeated until the tree is dead or gone.
What is the best way to prune a tree?
Directional pruning works best if started when a tree is young and may not work on trees that have been topped many times. Such trees often are too rotten and poorly formed to benefit. Trees with crowns that spread are the most easily pruned. Conifers and other trees with strong central leaders or trunks are more difficult to train with this method.
Why are there stubs on my tree?
Unfortunately, many stubs are left on the tree because most of the cuts are made between the points where branches meet. Sprouts usually grow out quickly from the stub and the old branch becomes rotten below the stub cut.
How to prevent conflicts between trees and power lines?
Planting Precautions. The best way to prevent conflicts between trees and power lines is to plant trees in the correct location. Though some large trees grow under power lines naturally, many are planted there because people do not realize how large they will get.
Why are trees and power lines important?
Trees and power lines are both important assets for our communities. Trees provide beauty, shade, wildlife habitat, and wind protection, while power lines bring us electricity for lights, heat, and appliances. Unfortunately, trees and power lines often end up in conflict. Many power outages are caused by trees that have grown into the lines.
Why are power lines out?
Many power outages are caused by trees that have grown into the lines. Trees growing into power lines cause increased line clearing costs . The pruning done during line clearing may also decrease tree health and cause trees to become dangerous. Fortunately, modern power line pruning techniques have been developed that result in healthier, ...
