Who is Responsible For Trees Near Power Lines

Generally, Utah utility companies take care of managing trees near the power lines to facilitate safety and to alleviate potential service interruptions. That said, the specific ownership of the responsibility may vary by region and power line type (e.g., high voltage versus service line).

However, if you’ve noticed a tree right up into the power lines in your neighborhood and thought to yourself, “Whose problem is that?” Well, you are not alone.

This is something that a lot of people don’t think about until they see a branch directly over a wire, or the power is out after a storm.

Following is the Diamond Tree Experts’ approach to who is responsible for trees near power lines.

Your Utah Utility Company’s Responsibility

So here’s the straight scoop: if we’re talking about the big, main power lines that run down your street, the utility company (like Rocky Mountain Power) usually handles those.

They don’t do it for fun, trees can knock out power, spark fires, or just make a mess of things if left alone. Utility crews come out every so often and trim stuff back, especially around those high-voltage lines. They want a good ten feet of clearance, sometimes more.

If you ever see a branch getting close to one of those lines, don’t even think about messing with it yourself. Just call the utility company and let them send out the people with the gear and the know-how.

Homeowner’s Yard

But if it’s the smaller wire that runs from the pole to your house, that’s usually going to be your responsibility.

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Got a tree starting to touch that service line? That’s going to be a job you will have to handle.

But, don’t go all lumberjack – call the utility company first. Most times, they’ll come out and disconnect the line so a pro can work on it safely. Seriously, trying to trim near a live wire is one of the quickest ways to ruin your weekend.

The “Right-of-Way”

You’ll hear this term “right-of-way” thrown around a lot. All it really means is land that’s set aside for stuff like utility lines.

If a tree’s growing in one of these zones, the utility company takes care of it—trimming, removing, whatever needs doing to keep things safe.

If you see a city tree down on a power line after a storm, just call public works. They’ll handle it. And you won’t have to worry about the job.

Fallen Trees

Now, when a tree actually falls on a power line?

Where it lands kind of decides who’s in charge.

If it’s on your property, you’ll probably need to call a pro to help. If it’s public land, the city or utility company steps in.

Either way, nobody should be touching a downed power line—just make the call and let trained folks handle it.

Utah’s Legal Framework

In Utah, there are clear-cut rules about trees and power lines, mostly to keep everyone safe and avoid fights between neighbors.

State Regulations

Here’s how it works: Utah says don’t plant trees too close to power lines – simple as that. If you break that rule, or your tree is a hazard, the utility company can come on your property and trim or remove it. In an emergency, they’ll act fast.

City Ordinances

Every city has its own quirks. In Midvale, they say don’t plant tall trees (over 30 feet) within 20 feet of a line. The Draper tree guide recommends a 15-foot rule for trees over 25 feet tall. Salt Lake City likes a ten-foot gap. It’s all pretty much common sense—don’t let trees get too close to the wires.

Utility Tariffs

Utility companies have their own rules about when they trim, when they warn you, and what they’ll do if there’s an emergency.

Sometimes you’ll get a letter or notice, but if it’s urgent, they’ll just handle it. It’s not personal – they’re just trying to keep the lights on.

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Why You Can’t DIY Trees Near Power Lines

You might be tempted to try to save a few bucks and try to trim that branch yourself. Be aware, this isn’t like cleaning your gutters. When power lines are involved, it’s just not safe. It’s actually against the law in most cases.

Electrocution Risk

Electricity is no joke. It can jump from a line to you, even if you’re not touching it.

Every year, folks get seriously hurt – or worse – just trying to save a few bucks. The pros wear special gear for a reason. There’s a reason you see utility crews in those rubber gloves and hard hats.

Legal Prohibitions

And it’s not just about safety. It’s illegal for anyone who isn’t certified to work near those lines. You don’t want to be the reason your block loses power- or the reason you’re hit with a big fine.

Property Damage

The last thing you want is to drop a limb onto a power line and knock out the internet for the whole street. Or worse, have something crash onto your car or house.

Trust the people who do this for a living- they know how to avoid disaster.

Proactive Tree Management

Here’s where you can actually make a difference: don’t plant tall trees under or right next to power lines.

If you’re planning a new yard, think about planting small trees and keep anything that’ll grow over 25 feet at least 15 feet from the wires. Go for something smaller.

And keep an eye out- after a windstorm, do a quick walk-around. If you see branches hanging on our near power lines, or a tree starting to lean, call it in early. Taking care of the problem ASAP is always easier (and cheaper) than waiting for an emergency.

Professional Help

Need a branch trimmed near the wires or some other power line trimming? Call your utility or a professional ariborist with Diamond Tree Experts. It’s not about being a hero – it’s about being smart.

When Emergencies Strike

Storm knocks a tree down onto a line? Stay far away and call 911. Don’t touch it. Don’t let anyone else touch it. That’s common sense advice, but not always heeded by people anxious after a bad storm.

If you spot a hazard – branches sagging, trees leaning into lines – call it in. Utility companies usually have hotlines and websites just for this kind of thing. Fast reporting keeps everyone safe and saves a lot of headaches.

Stay Alert and Call the Pros at Diamond Tree Experts if you Need Advice

So, whose job is it to deal with trees near power lines?

Usually, it’s the utility company, but homeowners have to step up for their own property, especially when it comes to the service line.

In Utah, you’ll notice that certain tree planting rules are clearly outlined: don’t plant trees too close, don’t try to solve the problems yourself, and call a professional when anything looks dangerous.

You can keep your home, your power, and your neighborhood intelligent, proactive, and out of harm’s way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who trims trees near power lines in Utah?

Usually, the utility company—unless it’s the line running just to your house, then you might have to handle it.

Can I trim trees near power lines myself?

It is not recommended! There is plenty of potential danger when you work around power. Always call the professionals first!

What should I do if a tree is touching a power line?

Call your local utility company right away. It’s highly advisable not to go near it.

Am I responsible for trees on my property near power lines?

For the service line, yes. For the big main lines, usually no, but keep your trees in check anyway.

How often do utility companies trim trees?

There is no hard-and-fast rule, but usually every 3–5 years, but it depends on how fast things grow.

What happens after a storm or if a tree falls?

Storms are one of the main reasons for tree removal. Fortunately, utility companies and the city handle the big stuff—just call and report it.

Any special Utah rules I should know?

Best advice: don’t plant trees too close, and always check your city’s guidelines just to be safe.