Trees and power lines are a delicate mix.
This is why DREMC encourages homeowners, builders and developers to think about the relationship of electric rights-of-way when landscaping. Some trees have no place near power line rights-of-way; other tree types, however, can be safely planted within and near rights-of-way. The lists below provide a number of trees DREMC recommends to ensure you plant the right tree in the right place.
Small trees with a mature height of 20 feet or lower can be planted within the right of way if planted in a maintained yard setting; they may be planted no closer than 10 feet from the center of the pole line.
Medium growing trees with a mature height of 20 to 40 feet may be planted at the edge of the right of way, which is 20 feet from the center of the pole line. Trees with a mature height of greater than 40 feet should be planted no closer than 40 feet from the center of the pole line.
When planting near underground facilities, make sure to follow the “no-grow zone,” and leave access to the electrical boxes when the grass or shrubs are at mature size. The “no-grow zone” is defined as 3 feet on both sides and back of the underground box and 12 feet in front of the door.
Be sure to double check your space from the center of the pole line before selecting your tree.