There’s a Tree on a Power Line: Who to Call to Remove It

If there’s a tree on a power line on or near your property, you should call your local electrical utility company immediately to prevent safety hazards and power disruptions. However, if you have a tree on your property that is leaning dangerously close to your home or other structures, you should contact a tree removal service directly. This guide will help you find the perfect pro for the job.

Why You Should Call Your Utility Service for a Tree on a Power Line

In general, your utility company is the one who is responsible if a tree falls on power lines. Even if only tree branches are touching a power line, your utility company should still be your first call. An object interfering with active power lines is a risky situation, and only the power company has the appropriate tools, skills, and experience to resolve the situation safely. 

Whether it’s getting a few branches pruned or full-on tree removal, your utility company must handle any tree work near power lines. In most cases, they’ll handle the scheduling and payment for a tree removal service.

Can I DIY Removing a Tree On a Power Line?

You should not attempt to remove fallen branches or trees from active power lines under any circumstances. Only trained utility personnel should remove objects from power lines, as it’s a dangerous and risky task. That’s why it’s essential to call your local utility company to make them aware of trees fallen on power lines, as well as monitor trees close to power lines to eliminate potential issues before they happen.

Can I Hire a Tree Removal Service to Remove a Tree on a Power Line?

Utility companies must handle trees or tree branches on power lines; however, if the tree isn’t touching a power line yet, that’s another story. In that case, the responsibility of removing a tree near a power line typically falls on the homeowner.

Unless you want the tree gone regardless, you’ll need first to identify whether the tree is dead or otherwise posing such a hazard that removal is necessary. Dead trees can fall without warning or harbor termites and other pests, so it’s a good idea to remove them as soon as possible. Also, tree roots can damage your foundation and other structures around your home, so that’s something to keep in mind when determining whether to remove a tree near a power line. 

Hiring a Tree Removal Service for Trees on Power Lines

To find a local tree removal service, start by interviewing multiple services in your area, providing them with a rough idea of the size and type of tree you’d like removed to get an accurate price estimate. Once you’ve agreed on a price and scope of work, secure a written contract that specifies the work promised. In most cases, a tree removal service will require payment in full at the time of the service, but there may be payment options based on the extent of the job. If you have any budget concerns, discuss these upfront with your contractor to ensure you’re on the same page.

There are certain must-have licenses and certifications needed for a tree removal service. Firstly, every service must have a license per your state’s requirements. They should hold a business license for your city or state and a contractor’s license, which may need to be specific to tree removal based on local laws. They also must be fully bonded and insured to protect all parties involved in case of personal injury or property destruction.

These are the best questions to ask your tree removal service before you hire:

1. What licenses and certifications do you hold?

2. Can you provide proof of insurance and liability coverage?

3. How do you ensure safety during tree removal on my property?

4. Can you provide a written estimate detailing the scope of work and costs involved?

5. What equipment and techniques do you use for tree removal?

6. How will you handle the debris and cleanup after the job?

7. Are you familiar with local regulations regarding tree removal and permits?

8. Do you have certified arborists or trained professionals on your team?

9. Can you provide references or examples of similar projects you've completed?

How Do Tree Removal Specialists Remove Trees Near Power Lines?

If you hire a tree removal service to cut down a tree that’s dangerously close to a power line, you can expect them to perform the following steps:

1. A cardinal rule for how to cut down a tree safely is to wear the proper safety gear. Your tree removal service professional will don a hard hat or logger’s helmet, steel-toed boots, and protective gloves.

2. The pro will assess the tree to determine the best removal method for the tree based on its location, size, condition, and proximity to the power line.

3. The pro will determine the tree’s felling zone and establish an escape route for all involved parties.

4. The pro may trim off the branches closest to the power line, as well as the lower branches.

5. The pro will cut the notch in the tree’s trunk and insert felling wedges.

6. The pro will make the felling cut, angling it away from the power line.

7. The pro will dispose of the tree and its debris as agreed upon with the homeowner.

After your tree removal service finishes, ensure that all aspects of your contract are fulfilled before making the final payment. You should inspect the site and confirm that the debris is cleaned up as specified, and ensure you’re satisfied with the work performed. If you are happy with the service, consider leaving a favorable review online to help the tree removal service gain future business.