Although you might regularly watch the trunks of your trees for signs of damage, you need to remember to look upward for signs of problems, too. Can you trim tree branches touching power lines? Such work is far too risky for homeowners who like to do DIY projects. When you have power lines in the area, you need professional tree trimming in Los Gatos, CA.
Why Tree Branches Near Electrical Lines Represent a Hazard
Because of the multiple hazards and risks when cutting branches near power lines, you should never try this work yourself.
Clearance Is Necessary Around Power Lines
Most utility companies require at least 10 feet of clearance around power lines to keep branches or limbs from touching or falling on the lines during periods of severe wind.
You Have an Increased Risk of Losing Power
When tree limbs grow near power lines, one of them could fall on and disconnect the line. If you have people in your house who rely on electricity to run medical equipment or who need air conditioning to maintain their health, you don’t want to risk ever losing power. Keeping limbs away from the line is the best way to reduce the risk.
Risks of Trimming Branches Near Power Lines
Trimming trees near power lines is a dangerous prospect, even for professionals. However, can you trim tree branches touching power lines yourself if you have a large pole saw?
You shouldn’t do it yourself because of the chance of striking the line with the saw and electrocuting yourself. Contacting a high-voltage, live wire with a pole saw or ladder could kill you. Even if the electric shock isn’t fatal, you could suffer permanent injuries to your limbs or affect your heart rhythm.
The main power line from the utility company or the smaller line serving your house is equally dangerous for generating an electric shock.
Additionally, if you trim a tree branch and it falls on and damages the line, you could be responsible for paying for the repairs.
Determining Responsibility for Trimming the Trees Near Electrical Lines
If you have trees near overhead utility lines on your property, the utility company is nearly always responsible for trimming them. The utility company should perform right-of-way maintenance. Some companies have crews that travel around the city or region to trim trees that grow too close. Such work reduces and prevents the risk of power line damage in storms.
In fact, the company can usually enter your property and trim the trees however it wants to maintain the safety of the lines. If you have an overhead line running from the utility pole to your home, the utility company can maintain these trees, too.
However, if you have overhead lines that serve barns, outbuildings, or a guest house on your property, can you trim tree branches touching power lines in these areas? Such lines are your responsibility to clear, but you should still rely on professionals.
You also have the right to trim trees on your property that are near overhead utility lines, even though the utility company has the responsibility to keep them trimmed. You can contact an arborist for advice on trimming the trees beyond what the utility company does.
When To Remove Problematic Trees Near Power Lines and What To Plant Instead
Sometimes, doing vegetation management and tree trimming on a particular fast-growing tree becomes a constant headache for homeowners. You may want to ask an arborist for advice about removing the tree and eliminating the power line hazard.
If you decide you’d like to remove the tree that’s near the electric lines, arborists can recommend some smaller trees you can plant. They will take the height of the tree at maturity into account when making a recommendation. For a low-hanging power line, consider planting a small shrub or bush instead.
Let the Experts at Zazueta Tree Specialists Give Your Trees the Power Line Clearance They Need
If you see tree branches growing close to power lines along or on your property, don’t rush out to buy a large ladder and pole saw. Can you trim tree branches touching power lines? Creating power line clearance with tree maintenance is a job that only professionals should tackle.
Our experts at Zazueta Tree Specialists will inspect the tree that’s near the electric lines. We’ll determine whether it’s the property owner or the utility company’s responsibility to trim the trees, based on the location of the lines. If it’s your responsibility, we can do the work for you while avoiding electrical safety hazards. For a free inspection and estimate, call us today at (408) 603-3577.
