How do you decide when the trees are trimmed?
A: The primary voltage lines that provide electric service to your location are trimmed every three years. This schedule is ideal for the growth patterns and weather conditions in our area. A timely schedule keeps the tree branches from growing too close to the primary voltage lines and prevents power outages.
How do you determine the clearances required to maintain the trees?
A: The primary voltage lines require approximately 10 feet of initial clearance. This amount of clearance is necessary to prevent the tree from contacting the power line for the next three years. Trees with decay or weak limb attachments may require more clearance for safety. Individual tree growth rates also determine the amount of clearance needed. Since tree trimming is scheduled on a cycle, slow-growing trees do not require as much clearance as fast-growing trees.
Why are some trees trimmed differently than others?
A: The distance between the tree and the primary voltage line determines the type of trimming required. A tree located 15-20 feet from the power line typically needs side limbs trimmed back to clear the lines. A tree located directly under the lines will need to be topped to reduce the overall height of the tree. Additionally, limbs growing over primary voltage lines need to be trimmed back to protect the lines from being damaged by falling limbs.
What’s the difference between the main line near my location and the line that goes to my house?
A: The Service Entrance Cable (the line that goes from our pole to your house or business) is a low-voltage line that requires less clearance from tree limbs and branches. The black-coated wires of this cable are a protective shield. This type of line can safely be within inches of a tree trunk and large limbs. The service cable can also withstand minor contact with small tree branches. The main line near your location is a high voltage line that is not coated. These lines require more clearance from tree limbs.
Do I need to submit a request to trim the Service Entrance Cable?
A: Lakeland Electric no longer routinely trims the Service Entrance Cable. However, you can submit a request. Tree trimming for the service cable is limited to branches that are contacting the line and limbs that are less than 4” in diameter (approximately the size of a baseball). Large diameter limbs and limbs that are above the service cable are the customer’s responsibility.
How does trimming affect tree health?
A: When a side limb is trimmed back to the point of origin at the trunk of the tree, the branch collar zone of the tree protects the tree by generating wood to form a closure. In contrast, when a tree directly under the lines is topped in order to reduce the height of the canopy, there is no branch collar at the topped location to protect the tree. The exposed wood tissue begins to decay which can create a hazardous situation and eventually affect the health of the tree.
How can we avoid topping trees?
A: A large tree located under the power lines will never achieve its full potential. Sometimes the only solution is to consider having the tree removed and then replacing it with a suitable species.
How does Lakeland Electric’s Tree Replacement Program work?
A: If a tree is less than 12” in diameter (approximately the size of a dinner plate) and located within the normal trim zone, we can remove it and replace it at no charge. Replacement trees are usually in 15-gallon containers, depending on budgetary allowances. Tree Replacement Vouchers are also available for property owners who prefer to purchase their own tree. Selecting a new tree is an important decision and our utility arborist can assist you with suggestions.
Is there a long term solution to eliminate the conflict between trees and power lines?
A: We must select and plant trees that are appropriate for each location. Before planting a new tree, contact Lakeland Electric for our Growing with Trees Planting Guide. This brochure contains helpful information and recommended planting distances to prevent new trees from conflicting with utility lines.
What if we have concerns or questions about a tree near the lines?
A: Please call or submit a Tree Trimming Request if you have any concerns. Our utility arborist will provide a site visit to evaluate trees growing near the power lines and to explain what type of trimming will be necessary.
Will Lakeland Electric assist if a tree on my property needs to be removed or pruned?
A: If you are planning to remove a tree or prune a tree near the primary voltage power lines, it may be necessary for Lakeland Electric to trim the tree first. This will provide a safety clearance zone for the tree service to proceed with their work. Due to the extensive trimming required in these situations, the property owner will be responsible for the debris. Please provide five days notice to make these arrangements. There is no charge for this service.
What if the tree I want to remove is near the electric line to my house?
A: If you plan to remove or prune a tree near the Service Entrance Cable (the line that goes from our pole to your house), it may be necessary for the Lakeland Electric line crew to disconnect the cable temporarily. Your business will be without electricity for the duration and then reconnected when the work is completed. Please provide five days notice to make these arrangements. There is no charge for this service.
What if a tree on my property is hazardous or causes damage to the lines?
A: Trees that have fallen into primary voltage power lines will be trimmed back by Lakeland Electric to facilitate the repairs. The property owner is responsible for the debris and the remaining portion of the tree. Safety clearance from the primary voltage power lines or other measures will be provided to ensure safety. There is no charge for this service.
Will Lakeland Electric trim the trees on my property prior to the maintenance schedule?
A: It is usually not cost-effective to trim the trees at one address if the power lines that supply power to the neighborhood are not trimmed at the same time. If there is a situation that could create a potential hazard or power outage, it will be prioritized and scheduled promptly.
