Menu

Schedule Tree Service & Care This Winter to Get $50 Off

What Should I Do If My Tree Is Touching a Power Line?

What Should I Do If My Tree Is Touching a Power Line?

Building near power lines may not raise concerns initially, but trees touching or brushing against utility cables can…

Apr 27,2024

Building near power lines may not raise concerns initially, but trees touching or brushing against utility cables can cause devastating damage. While trees add beauty and value to a property, their proximity to power lines can create serious safety hazards, prompting emergency tree removal services. If you find a tree on your property is touching a power line, the experts at Sesmas Tree Service can assess the problem and recommend effective strategies to prevent electrical hazards and potential property damage. Here’s what you should do if a tree in your yard touches a power line. 

What Should I Do If My Tree Is Touching a Power Line?

Assess the Situation Safely

The first step is to assess the situation from a safe distance. Do not approach or touch the tree if it is in contact with a power line. Tree service experts recommend staying at least 30 feet away from the site to avoid electrocution or death. If you prefer a hands-off approach, work with certified arborists to detect visible damage, such as broken branches or signs of burning, and determine if tree trimming or complete removal are viable options. 

Contact the Utility Company

Once tree service experts identify the contact area, they may collaborate with your local utility company to enhance safety. Utility companies can dispatch trained technicians to handle situations involving trees and power lines safely. If the contact is not considered a safety risk, schedule a planned tree pruning session to mitigate such incidents. 

Our Services

Arborist Services Arborist Services

Arborist Services

Your Trusted Local Arborists in The Metro Atlanta Trees are a lot more than a trunk, some branches,…

Learn More
Storm Damage Cleanup Storm Damage Cleanup

Storm Damage Cleanup

Storms can leave behind broken limbs, split trunks, and fallen trees that block access and threaten nearby structures. In those moments,…

Learn More
Stump Grinding Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding

So, you have had a tree removed or you plan on removing a tree. What do you do about the stump?…

Learn More
Tree Trimming Tree Trimming

Tree Trimming

Are you looking for a reliable tree company for tree trimming or pruning? Sesmas Tree Service offers expert residential and…

Learn More
Crane Services Crane Services

Crane Services

Some tree removals reach a point where standard equipment simply is not enough to do the job safely. Tight clearances, extreme…

Learn More
Tree Removal Tree Removal

Tree Removal

The reasons for tree removal vary quite a bit. Perhaps you've moved into a new home and want to get…

Learn More
Emergency Tree Services Emergency Tree Services

Emergency Tree Services

That inanimate tree standing outside on your lawn may seem harmless, but it can surely cause a lot of damage. There…

Learn More
Tree Risk Assessment Tree Risk Assessment

Tree Risk Assessment

Tree risk assessment is essentially when a professional arborist analyzes a tree and concludes just how much of a risk it…

Learn More

Avoid Attempting DIY Solutions

Attempting to address a tree touching a power line on your own is extremely dangerous and should be handled by a trusted utility or tree care company. Do not use ladders, poles, or other tools to dislodge the tree or contact the power line. Even a minor DIY tree trimming can risk electrocution and subsequent injuries or death. 

Follow Utility Company’s Instructions

When the utility or tree care company arrives on the scene, follow their instructions carefully. Technicians will assess the situation, determine the best course of action, and take steps to remove the tree from the power line safely. This may involve de-energizing the line, trimming or removing branches, or, in extreme cases, cutting down the entire tree. Cooperate with utility personnel and provide any help or information they may require expediting the remediation or tree removal process.

Preventive Measures for the Future

After the tree is safely removed from the power line, expert technicians often recommend preventive measures to avoid similar incidents. These include tree pruning, regular inspections, and removal to maintain a safe distance. Consult with certified arborists or tree care professionals for guidance on proper maintenance and risk mitigation strategies.

Suppose a tree touches a power line on your property. In that case, it can be a concerning situation, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference in ensuring safety and preventing accidents. Contact Sesmas Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our experts to address the issue effectively and minimize the risk of electrical hazards and property damage.

Customer Reviews

3 large Leyland Cypress trees removed near front of our home. Excellent service, professional crew, very competitive pricing for superior work! Rolando provided the initial estimate and the  follow up and was the best in terms of customer relations. I'd both use this company again AND highly recommend them.

Susan Hitchcock

This is the 2nd time we have used Sesmas Tree Service. They are a wonderful company to deal with. They were on time, professional, and very thorough. They cleaned up prior to leaving and went out of their way to protect our plants and landscaping. And they kept to their proposal with no hidden cost or add ons. Definitely a five star experience!

Gene McFadden

Wow!  I deal with tree services in my professional work and I can honestly say Sesmas is by far the most professional, best equipped, efficient, safety conscious, and communicative service I've ever encountered.  Their price was very reasonable and they even went so far as to include additional work without increasing the price.  Call them!  Now! They are very quick to respond.

Scott McLendon

We've used Sesmas several times and have always received excellent service.  Estimates are quick and easy and the crew is efficient and leaves the property clean of debris.  Recently we needed a tree removed next to a heavily landscaped area.  Sebastian went over everything with me in detail and listened to my concerns.  The crew did an excellent job in removing the tree with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.  We are pleased and will consider them again in the future for pruning and tree removal.

Tonia Griswold

Sesmas Tree Service was amazing! I had two dead trees cut and a lot of trees that were already down on my property removed. Sebastian came out and sent the quote in writing within 24 hours. We were in the process of scheduling the service when a slot opened up sooner snd I was able to go ahead and get the work done. Everything was explained ahead of time for what to expect. The crew was very efficient and professional.  All of the work and cleanup was done in one day. I would recommend Sesmas for your tree cutting/cleanup needs.

LaDora Woods

I hired Sesmas to cut down a very tricky tree that was hanging over my house as well as a few large limbs. They did a great job and had the machinery to get the job done right.

Perry Hartman

Great experience with Sesmas. They were meticulous with my tree removal, safe and efficient. David’s communication throughout the process was much appreciated. Highly recommend!

Lindsay Ellenburg

Great experience with Sesmas Tree Service. The arborist who came out was a Board Certified Master Arborist, and you could immediately tell he knew his stuff. He took the time to explain what needed to be done, gave us clear options, and helped us feel confident from start to finish. The whole process was easy and professional. We’ll definitely use them again.

Ed Martin

Blogs & Latest News

Stay updated with the latest tips, trends, and insights from Sesmas. Explore expert advice on tree care, safety, and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful year-round.

View All
Feb 17,2026

Are Cheap Tree Removal Services Worth the Risk?

Trees play a crucial role in our daily lives, from providing shade and enhancing curb appeal to purifying the air we…

Read More
Feb 11,2026

Professional Tree Care Starts at the Roots

Trees are magnificent entities that provide many benefits to your landscape and the environment. While big, mature trees may seem sturdy…

Read More
Feb 04,2026

Is That Old Tree Stump a Problem?

Have you had trees removed from your backyard? If so, the stumps left behind can be problematic if left unattended. If…

Read More
Jan 27,2026

Tree Services: Small Cuts That Prevent Big Damage

Ever wondered how tree service providers in Atlanta, GA make strategic small cuts to prevent devastating damage? The secret lies…

Read More
Jan 20,2026

How Tree Services Protect Your Home and Property

Trees provide numerous benefits to your landscape and the environment. However, they require regular care to remain healthy, safe, and beneficial.…

Read More
Jan 14,2026

What Insurance Should a Tree Company Have?

Insurance for tree service providers in Atlanta, GA helps cover injuries, damages, stolen equipment, and lawsuits. Essentially, anything that can damage…

Read More
Jan 07,2026

How Proper Trimming Helps Trees Grow Stronger

Trees in your backyard or neighborhood may catch your attention; some are sturdy and healthy, while others are weak and struggling.…

Read More
Dec 30,2025

Best Trees to Plant for Shade and Value

Are you looking for ways to elevate your outdoor spaces with function, beauty, and eco-friendly flair? If so, planting trees is…

Read More