Things To Know Before Planting Trees Near Power Lines

A tree aggressively pruned around power lines

If you’re planning on putting a few trees in your outdoor space, it’s vital to know where you can plant them when it comes to nearby power lines. Tall trees that grow straight up into overhead power lines are repeatedly trimmed back to stay clear of the lines. The job can be pricey and creates an odd-shaped, unattractive tree. Also, the roots of trees that are put too close to underground power lines can be destroyed if the lines have to be taken up for repairs.

Here are some things to know before planting trees near power lines to avoid conflicts with the power lines.

Planting Trees and Overhead Power Lines

Tree specialists and electric utilities suggest that property owners plant trees near overhead power lines pick trees that grow 25 feet or less. Tree care professionals call this the low zone. Also, there is a medium zone and a tall zone. Here’s how they work:

Low Zone — This area goes from straight underneath overhead power lines to between 15 feet and 25 feet on any side of the lines. Low-growing trees that mature between 20 and 25 feet should only be put in the low zone.

Medium Zone — Medium-growing trees that mature between 25 and 35 feet have to be planted in the medium zone, an area that’s around 25 to 50 feet away from power lines.

Tall Zone — Tall trees that mature over 35 feet have to be planted in the tall zone which starts around 50 feet from the power lines.


Trees and Underground Power Lines

Since underground power lines aren’t buried deep down and usually are close to the surface, it’s vital to plant your trees a secure distance away. Doing so will help eliminate issues while digging and can aid in stopping your tree’s roots from growing around the lines.

Since a tree’s root system is as wide as the tree itself, and in some instances wider, you might want to follow the low, medium and tall zone recommendations when planting trees near underground power lines.

Though, if you keep the low zone around buried power lines free of trees, you won’t chance significant destruction to the tree’s roots if the line requires repairing.

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