Tree Trimming Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Why is it necessary to trim my trees?
Many trees have grown up into or are planted too close to powerlines. Outages and safety hazards can occur when trees are too near overhead conductors. Service interruptions caused by trees are serious and may affect many customers and cause damage to the electrical infrastructure.
Do I have to give permission to trim my trees?
Once we have identified that your trees need trimmed, you will be notified that tree trimming has been scheduled. Your permission is not required, because state law mandates that we maintain clearance and keep the power lines safe and hazard free.
Aren’t you trespassing if you come onto my property to trim trees?
The utility is legally required to maintain its facilities. Utility franchise, easements and rights of ways are often conveyed in the deed to a property. In addition, as a condition of electric service to your home, you must allow the PUD access for maintenance.
How far from the power lines will my trees be trimmed?
Many factors help determine the distance from the lines your trees will be trimmed. They include:
Growth rate of tree species
Voltage level of power line
Current distance of line to tree
(The minimum distance for most distribution voltage within the PUD system is 10’ tree-to conductor clearance.)
Who will be trimming my trees?
Asplundh Tree Expert Company under contract with the PUD will trim trees in the right-of-way on our electrical distribution system. They are professional arborists who use the latest pruning techniques. PUD crews will also participate in tree trimming operations and abide by the same standards.
How will my trees be trimmed?
Trees will be trimmed according the American National Standards Institute A300 (ANSI) Pruning Standards. This trimming technique uses natural lateral or directional pruning methods which direct growth of the tree away from overhead conductors. This allows the tree to retain much of its natural form while requiring less trimming in the future.
Is this a free service, or do I pay for tree trimming?
Okanogan County PUD does not charge ratepayers for this service. We provide the tree trimming service to ensure that power is delivered safely, more reliably and at less cost to our ratepayers.
What if I want my tree removed instead of just trimmed?
Okanogan County PUD will remove trees that are interfering with overhead conductors or ground transformers. Since there are many factors that will determine whether or not a tree qualifies for removal, a site specific determination will be made by a PUD representative. Removal is done at no expense to the landowner. Once removal is complete, the landowner then qualifies for the Tree Replacement Program.
How can I avoid having my trees trimmed because of power lines?
The best way to avoid conflicts is to never plant trees underneath power lines. If you choose to plant trees near power lines, select trees with slow growth rates that have a short mature height and spread that will not interfere with nearby power lines. (Washington State Law mandates that we provide the minimum required clearance.)
Can I request trimming if my trees are too close to power lines?
Yes, if you feel your trees are too close to power lines, contact the Okanogan County PUD and we will inspect the site to determine if the trees should be trimmed immediately or when periodic maintenance is scheduled for your area.
Can I trim my own trees around power lines?
NO! Serious injury or death can result when untrained homeowners attempt to trim trees around power lines. Only the PUD or its contracted tree trimming service is allowed to trim trees interfering with the power lines.
What should I do before I plant any new trees?
Before you plant, please make sure you are aware of the location of all utility lines including underground. Know the growth potential of any trees you intend to plant.
Who can I talk to if I have more questions?
Contact the Right-of-Way Superintendent at the Okanogan County PUD at 422-8473.