First, pole to pole utility wires are the wires that usually run along the street. These may contain electric power lines that are extremely dangerous. When a client calls with a problem regarding a tree that is near the pole to pole wires, we always recommend that they call their local power company. Many times, the power company will trim and / or remove the tree. In Virginia, it is against the law for anyone except a trained professional who is OSHA certified to trim trees around power lines. The High Voltage Act requires citizens to contact the local power company to trim trees near wires.

If you ever wonder what happens when utility wires and trees collide, watch this video.

Second, there are also pole to house wires. These are wires that go from a pole on the street to the house. We don’t trim trees around these utility wires either. Instead, we contract the utility companies to help. Usually they will drop these lines, so trees can be trimmed safely.

Finally, there are those pesky underground utility wires, cables, and pipes around trees. We contact Miss Utility of Virginia when it is probable that there are underground lines in an area where we are grinding stumps or digging. Miss Utility marks the lines, so that we can safely dig. This takes several days. It is important to plan accordingly.

When utility wires and trees are close together, we always proceed with caution. Miss Utility and local utility companies provide supports to safely dig around, trim, or remove trees near wires. Do not hesitate to contact them.