Who decides whether an electric utility can cut down a tree near a powerline?
The choice of how to trim trees and manage vegetation growth near a power line is primarily made by the electric utility, subject to state and local requirements and laws, applicable safety codes, and any limitations or obligations specified in rights-of-way agreements.
The power lines near my house don’t seem to be anywhere near the trees. Why are they being trimmed?
Electric utilities are required to maintain the appropriate clearance between trees and transmission lines at all times. During the summer months, powerlines sag as they expand due to the air temperature and heavy use. Clearances around the lines must account for this, as well as wind, which causes the lines to sway.
Second, electric utilities usually prune or remove vegetation to a distance greater than the minimum clearances to account for future growth, movement of trees or power lines due to wind, conductor sag due to heat and line loading, and other factors.
The tree is in my yard. Why am I unable to stop the utility from cutting down/trimming my tree?
An electric utility is granted an easement or a right-of-way on private property in order to build and maintain electric power lines. The terms of a utility right-of-way, defining the rights of the parties for building and maintaining electric lines, are specified in rights-of-way agreements, and these agreements are usually attached to a property deed.
Who does NLR Electric use to complete tree trimming work?
We use a combination of in-house tree trimming crews and contractor crews.
What can I expect during tree trimming?
Expect the bulk of tree work to focus on removing any vegetation within the clearance area. North Little Rock Electric’s focus is on maintaining reliable service to our customers. This means a compromise for our customers. Contractors are focused on maintaining reliable service and are all well trained in clearing electrical lines. Trees that are not planted and have a smaller diameter will be targeted for removal. It is not the Electric Department’s job to maintain vegetation for a property privacy or appearance.
- Annually the electric department will send out notifications for the areas we plan on having tree trimming contractors trim. Our Contractors plan to notify you in advance to inform you that our tree trimming crews will be working in your area.
- Prior to the arrival of work crews, all power lines are inspected in the service area to determine the work that is required.
- A door hanger will be placed on the customer’s door, reminding you of the work being done in your area and on your property. This may be done weeks ahead of time, or only a few days.
- On the day that work will commence, our contractors will attempt to reach out to the customer.
- The work can take a couple of days to complete. The length of time a job requires is dependent on the amount of work needed to properly trim an area.
- Once work is complete, the wood waste will be removed. This process can take a few days depending on equipment and personnel. Contractors attempt to have all wood waste removed before weekends & pay special attention during holidays.
Situations may arise when vegetation maintenance will be performed without prior notification. This may occur when a tree has caused a power outage or poses an imminent safety hazard. Please see NLRED’s Rules and Regulations for more information.
How will I be contacted about tree trimming in my area?
- Annually the electric department will send out notifications for the areas we plan on having tree trimming contractors trim. Our Contractors plan to notify you in advance to inform you that our tree trimming crews will be working in your area.
- Prior to the arrival of work crews, all power lines are inspected in the service area to determine the work that is required.
- A door hanger will be placed on the customer’s door, reminding you of the work being done in your area and on your property. This may be done weeks ahead of time, or only a few days.
- On the day that work will commence, our contractors will attempt to reach out to the customer.
Do you handle trimming vegetation on a customer’s service line?
NLR Electric does not perform trimming on trees for the service wire (line from the pole to your home/business). We will disconnect service line free of charge to allow for safe pruning. Advance notice of 48 hours or more is needed before disconnection. Please call 501-975-8888 for more information.
What is an easement?
An easement is an area of your property that allows for a utility to maintain equipment. For example, if you have trees on your property that may come into contact with our service lines, we have the right to trim the trees to maintain our service.
What to do if I need a special request during tree trimming?
We understand that sometimes there are specific areas that we need to take special care of, if you have concerns please reach out to us and make us aware as soon as you are notified with a door hanger.
What should I consider when planting near the easement in my yard?
If trees, limbs, or brush are located within the clearing zone, it will be trimmed or removed. NLR Electric strongly suggest not planting any vegetation with a mature height of over 15 feet in the clearing zone.
Vegetation should be planted at least 10 ft away from ground-mounted equipment. Any vegetation hindering access will likely be trimmed or removed.