where to plant trees
Tree Planting Guide
The taller a tree will become, the further it needs to be from overhead lines. This guide will help you decide which tree to plant to make sure it’s safe from power lines.
Safety Tips
Safely Plant Trees
Trees and power lines often coexist without problems. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautions when planting a tree.
Not only do dangers lurk for the person planting the tree, nearby power lines and trees can be harmed as well. Trees growing too close to electrical lines are the primary cause of momentary short circuits and flickering lights. When it storms, tree limbs that are too close to power lines can knock the lines out completely and create a greater threat to your safety.
Overhead utility lines are the easiest to see and probably the ones we take for granted most. Although these lines look harmless enough, they are extremely dangerous.
Meanwhile, underground utility lines can be buried very close to the ground’s surface. That’s why it’s so important to call 811 before you dig.
Planting Tips
Precautions When Planting a Tree
- Call 811
Before you dig, call 811, the underground utility locator service, to mark the location of underground utilities so accidental contact, damage and injuries can be avoided.
- Limit Tree Height
Choose trees that will grow no higher than 25 feet when planting near power lines. Plant larger trees more than 40-60 feet away from power lines.
- Avoid Underground Lines
Do not plant near underground utility services. Tree roots can grow and interfere with underground pipes, cables and wires. Future repairs to these facilities also could damage the health and beauty of nearby plants and trees.
- Pick the Right Spot
Don’t plant trees, shrubs, plants or other vegetation where they can damage electrical equipment or interfere with your electric co-op’s ability to access it.
- Request Assistance
Ask Tipmont to come trim your tree if it begins growing near power lines; don’t risk your safety doing it yourself.
The taller a tree will become, the further it needs to be from overhead lines.
Tree Types
If planting within 15 feet of power lines
Plant minimum 20 feet from overhead lines.
Plant 50+ feet away from overhead lines.
Trees Not Suitable Near Power Lines
Catalpa • Carolina Poplar • Silver Maple • Boxelder • Willow • Siberian Elm • Black Locust • Cottonwood Tree of Heaven • Mulberry • Elm Species
