It depends on how close the branches are to the lines. In most cases, a licensed tree service can trim branches that are not within the utility’s restricted clearance zone. Anything touching or within a few feet of an active power line typically requires the utility company to get involved first. The safest move is to have both parties assess the tree.
A homeowner in the Johnson Lane, NV area recently called us about exactly this situation. A tree near the street was growing toward a utility pole and the lines running from it, and she wanted to know who was responsible for clearing it. Her mother is on home oxygen, so losing power was not an option. That kind of urgency is exactly why it matters to understand who does what before a branch comes down on its own.
At Joe Benigno’s Tree Service, we get this question often. Here is a straightforward breakdown so you know what to expect.
What Part of the Tree Can a Tree Service Actually Cut?
A tree service can typically trim branches that are outside the utility’s required clearance buffer around the lines.That buffer varies by utility company and voltage level, but it is usually measured in feet from the conductor. If branches are still a safe distance away from the wire itself, we can prune them without involving the utility.
What we cannot do is work directly on or immediately adjacent to energized lines. That work falls under utility jurisdiction for safety and liability reasons. It requires specialized equipment and training that goes beyond standard tree care.
When Should You Call the Utility Company First?
Call your utility company first if branches are already touching the lines or appear to be within a foot or two of contact. They may send a crew to clear the immediate danger zone before a tree service can safely work the rest of the tree.
The good news is that calling both parties does not have to be complicated. Many homeowners do exactly what the caller did: contact the utility and the tree service at the same time. That way, both teams can coordinate and you are not waiting on one before the other can start.
What Does a Tree Trimming Estimate Near Power Lines Include?
When our estimator visits, we assess how much of the tree we can safely trim and what clearance work may need to wait for the utility. We look at the tree’s overall structure, which branches are the priority, and whether a full canopy trim makes sense at the same time.
For a situation like this, the scope can include:
- Clearing branches away from the utility line where we are able to safely reach
- Shaping the canopy so regrowth takes longer to reach the lines again
- Trimming other trees on the property that do not involve line clearance
Our tree trimming and pruning service covers all of this. Cost depends on the number of trees, their size, and the complexity of what needs to be removed. We will give you a clear estimate on-site so there are no surprises.
You can learn more about our crew and how we approach jobs like this on our about page.
Is It Worth Trimming Aggressively to Avoid Future Problems?
Yes, especially when power reliability matters at your home. Trimming back further than the minimum clearance means you are not calling again in a year or two when the branches grow back toward the lines. For households where power cannot be interrupted, that long-term thinking is worth it.
It also protects the tree itself. Overgrown branches that contact lines are often damaged or stressed. A proper pruning cut promotes healthier regrowth and a better-shaped tree overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the utility company trim my whole tree for free?
No. The utility company is only responsible for clearing branches that pose a risk to the power line itself. They are not going to shape the rest of your tree or clean up branches elsewhere in the yard. That work falls to a professional tree service.
What if I am not sure whether my tree is too close to the lines?
Have both the utility and a certified tree service take a look. Neither call costs you anything upfront, and getting both perspectives gives you a complete picture before any work begins. Never attempt to assess or trim anything near an active line yourself.
Can you trim trees in the back yard at the same time?
Absolutely. If you have other trees on your property that need pruning or cleanup, we can include those in the same estimate visit. Bundling the work into one job is usually more efficient for everyone.
If you are dealing with a similar situation and are not sure where to start, reach out to us and we will get an estimator out to take a look.
Ready to Get Your Trees Assessed in Johnson Lane, NV?
Whether you have one tree brushing a utility line or several trees that need a full cleanup, we are here to help. Homeowners across the Johnson Lane, NV area trust us to handle the details and give them a straight answer about what needs to happen. Contact us today to schedule your estimate.
