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Who Handles Trees Near Power Lines? Responsibilities Explained

Who Handles Trees Near Power Lines? Responsibilities Explained

Trees add beauty, functionality, and value to our landscapes and environment. However, they can pose serious hazards if…

Feb 21,2025

Trees add beauty, functionality, and value to our landscapes and environment. However, they can pose serious hazards if they grow too close to power lines. Did you know that trees are the leading cause of power outages and fire hazards? Whether an overgrown branch rubbing against electrical lines or a storm-damaged tree leaning precariously, Sesmas Tree Service can help. Our seasoned tree service providers in Alpharetta, GA leverage extensive expertise and knowledge to assess the potential damage and determine who is responsible. When dealing with power lines, it is crucial to let the utility and tree care company handle the situation to avoid devastating scenarios.

Who Handles Trees Near Power Lines? Responsibilities Explained

Who Is Responsible for Trees Near Power Lines?

As mentioned, dealing with utility lines should be left to the professionals for safety. If you need power line clearance, the utility company can liaise with a certified tree service to prune, trim, and remove vegetation or entire trees that interfere with power lines. However, understanding who is responsible for what is crucial to avoid inconveniences, hazards, and property damage.

The utility and tree care company handles trimming and the clearance of power lines. This gives you peace of mind knowing everything is handled according to the local codes and regulations. It is crucial for homeowners to cooperate with professionals throughout the process, allowing access to their properties. Lastly, arborists will assess the health of your trees to detect potential issues, providing preventive measures to avoid power line hazards down the line.

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Utility Company Responsibilities

Utility companies adhere to set laws and regulations, ensuring proper clearance between trees and power lines. However, clearance can vary depending on the voltage, as high voltage can cause fires and devastating property damage. You can expect your utility company to follow state, federal, and local clearance requirements, clearing downed lines and restoring power to your home.

Sometimes the utility or tree service can approach you directly and request to trim potentially hazardous branches on your property. It is advisable to cooperate during such instances to keep the community safe and protect you from liability issues.

Property Owner Responsibilities

While the utility company is responsible for all the power lines, you can take steps to maintain healthy and safe trees. This may entail working with a professional tree care company to ensure regular trimming and pruning, as well as scheduling risk assessments with certified arborists to identify factors that may risk premature tree removal. As a homeowner, there are steps you can take to maintain a safe outdoor space, but power line safety is the responsibility of your utility company.

How Can Arborists Help Around Power Lines?

In most areas, only certified tree service providers are allowed within a certain proximity to power lines. Arborists can keep your trees in tip-top shape and provide guidance to help you act accordingly during emergencies. If you have trees in your backyard near power lines, a professional arborist can evaluate the health and growth patterns to determine the best solution to mitigate damage and tree removal emergencies. 

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

In addition, tree service providers leverage specialized equipment and proven strategies to ensure good health and safety throughout the year. When it comes to power lines and trees, staying proactive is vital to preventing risks down the line. Schedule a consultation today with a trusted tree care company to address potential hazards before they wreak havoc.

When to Call Emergency Services

If a tree on your property falls on utility lines, it is advisable to call professional emergency services. Contact us at the Sesmas Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our experts to maintain healthy trees and a safe home. We provide comprehensive services, including routine pruning and tree removal, if necessary, at competitive rates.

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