Trees that grow too close to power lines can cause outages, start fires or create other hazardous conditions. Generally, we remove trees that pose a serious threat to safety and electric. Not only does this work help maintain electric safety and service reliability, it is required by state and federal regulations.

We take pride in having a professional tree maintenance program. In fact, we've been recognized with the Tree Line USA award for several years in a row by the National Arbor Day Foundation for our vegetation management and tree-pruning practices.

How do we prune?
How much do we prune?
Tree removal
Tips for planting
Safety matters
Tree clearances around high-voltage transmission lines

For more information about the types of trees to plant near power lines, you can order a free copy of our Small Trees for Small Places book or download a copy (1 MB). 

 How do we prune?
We hire professional arborists to maintain a safe corridor around power lines. Our arborists and members of our tree pruning crews are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. They use natural pruning methods to maintain the health of the trees.

If you'd like a tree pruned or removed for landscaping purposes, you'll need to hire a private tree removal contractor to perform the work. If necessary, we can disconnect a service line for their workers' safety.

 How much do we prune? 
Pruning clearances depend on tree species and growth patterns and the voltage of nearby power lines. Around distribution lines, which are typically found in neighborhoods, we provide at least 10 feet of clearance. 

Here are some shapes you may expect from properly pruned trees:

 Tree removal 
Sometimes the best solution to tree and power line conflicts is tree removal. We work with neighborhoods to remove problem trees, particularly in cases where they require repeated pruning. Tree removal is especially important where pruning along cannot achieve safe clearance from power lines.

Pacific Power seeks the property owner's written permission prior to tree removal. Coupons are also provided to help landowner's buy low-growing replacement trees. These coupons are redeemable at local nurseries. 

 Tips for planting 
To reduce the need for future pruning, be sure you choose an appropriate tree for the space (especially around power lines). Some things to keep in mind as you're planting:

• Low-growing trees (under 25 feet when mature) may be planted adjacent to overhead power lines.
• Plant tall-growing trees (over 25 feet when mature) at least 25 feet away from overhead power lines.
• Trees that grow taller than 35 feet when mature should be planted 50 feet away from overhead lines.
• Plant trees and shrubs at least 10 feet away from ground-mounted transformers.
• Locate underground utilities before you plant.  Find the number of the free location service in your state.
• Plant deciduous trees facing southeast and southwest for summer shade and winter sun.
• Plant evergreen trees to provide winter windbreaks.

  Safety matters
When working outside with antennas, ladders and long-handled tools, remember to always look up to see if power lines are near. Never trim limbs or remove trees around power lines, and do not climb utility poles or trees near power lines for any reason.   See more information on electrical safety . 

  Tree clearances around high-voltage transmission lines
Trees typically must be removed around high-voltage transmission lines to protect the safety and reliability of electric service.Trees that grow too close to high-voltage power lines create
hazardous conditions that can cause forest and brush fires, endanger homes, interrupt electric service and contribute to a catastrophic failure of the power grid.

Work will either be done by manual hand crew or by machine, based on the terrain. In either case, where trees and brush are removed, logs will be left for the landowner's use. Resulting brush and limbs will be cut to within 18 inches of the ground.

The figure below shows the areas around the power lines and towers that should be kept clear. We hope to keep the wire zone clear of trees and fast-growing vegetation. Utility-friendly trees are acceptable in the border zone. Any imminently hazardous trees in any zone will be removed for your safety and the integrity of our system.