Trees Beneath Power Lines Should You Be Planting Trees Around Power Lines

As mentioned, 25-45 feet (7.5-14 m.) is usually the height utility companies trim tree branches to allow for power lines. If you are planting a new tree in an area beneath power lines, it is suggested that you select a tree or shrub that does not grow taller than 25 feet (7.5 m.).

How far away from power lines can you plant trees?
Are trees touching power lines dangerous?
Can tree roots damage underground power lines?
Who is responsible for trees near power lines?
How do you hide power lines in your yard?
Can I plant bushes under power lines?
What happens when trees touching power lines?
Can electricity travel through tree?
Can you touch electrical lines?
How deep are residential power lines buried?
Why should trees not be planted near underground water pipes?
How far down are gas lines buried?

How far away from power lines can you plant trees?

No trees should be planted directly under a power line. Look up and around to make sure the right tree is planted in the right location. Trees that mature at a height of less than 30 feet can be planted 10 feet from power lines. Trees that mature at a height of over 45 feet should be planted 50 feet from power lines.

Are trees touching power lines dangerous?

Trees growing near power lines can cause a fire, as well as an electrical, hazard to anyone in contact with the tree at ground level. Trees don't have to physically touch an energized power line to be dangerous. ... This arcing can also cause power outages.

Can tree roots damage underground power lines?

Tree roots and underground lines often co-exist without problems. However, trees planted near underground lines could have their roots damaged if the lines need to be dug up for repairs. The biggest danger to underground lines occurs during planting.

Who is responsible for trees near power lines?

Electric utilities are responsible for trimming trees near power lines. They are required to do so by the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) which has been adopted in most states. It's important to note that property owners may also have some responsibility for trimming trees.

How do you hide power lines in your yard?

How to Hide an Electric Pole in a Backyard

Use a twining vine such as clematis to hide the pole. Use a wooden electrical pole as a support for evergreen or flowering vines, if your utility company and local government allow it. ...
Plant a cluster of birch trees to disguise electrical poles. ...
Hemlocks are dense enough to make a good screen.

Can I plant bushes under power lines?

Transmission power lines: Plant only low-growing shrubs under the wire zone and only grasses within the area directly below the tower. ... Medium zone: From 15 to 50 feet of the pole, plant trees no taller than 40 feet at maturity. Tall zone: At least 50 feet away from the pole, plant trees taller than 40 feet at maturity.

What happens when trees touching power lines?

Trees that grow too close to electric lines are a hazard. They can cause power outages or momentary power interruptions when branches touch overhead lines. ... And if you're standing too near the tree, electricity can jump from the tree to you, causing serious injuries or even death.

Can electricity travel through tree?

Tree limbs can conduct electricity. When trees grow near overhead electrical wires, they can contact the wires and become energized. Trees and wires are dangerous, full of electrical power that can injure or kill humans. There are several things that can go wrong for do-it-yourselfers trying to trim tree branches.

Can you touch electrical lines?

Power lines are not insulated and you should always avoid contact with them. It is quite possible for people to get electrocuted if you touch power lines.

How deep are residential power lines buried?

In the United States, the National Electrical Code specifies that direct burial cable (i.e., type UF) must be buried at least 24 inches deep. If you put the wire in PVC conduit, then the minimum depth is 18 inches.

Why should trees not be planted near underground water pipes?

Large, fast-growing trees will give you the most problems around your sewer and drain pipes. ... Although these tree roots may not grow rapidly, they grow with extreme pressure which is where they begin to cause problems for your drain pipes and sewerage system.

How far down are gas lines buried?

Exterior piping may be either buried or installed aboveground and shall be well supported and protected against mechanical damage. Underground piping shall be buried not less than 18 inches below the surface of the ground unless otherwise protected.