Unfortunately, not everywhere in the world can we see and learn about clear guidelines on trees and power lines. How close is too close? Do you need to worry if your tree is touching a power line? What to do if it is? How to spot a tree that’s close to a power line?
If you’re anything like us – you’d like answers to all of those questions. And while we can’t provide you with state or country guidelines, rules and regulations – we can tell you what signs to look out for.
1. A Tree Is Within 50 Feet Away From A Power Line
A tree should be pretty far away from a power line – just in case. As a general rule of thumb, a tree should be at least 50 feet away from a power line, so if you happen to notice a tree or a few branches closing in on that 50 feet mark – maybe it’s time to consider cutting some of those branches.
Naturally, this would have to be a big, tall tree in order for you to react – not a sapling that’s a foot tall and fifty feet away from a power line. Anyway, tree trimming is probably the best course of action in this case, and if you don’t know or don’t want to do that all by yourself, you can just do a quick search for “tree service near me“, and you’ll find someone that will do it for you.
2. A Tree Is Within 10 Feet Away From A Power Line
This is already cutting it too close for our liking. A tree or even a single tree branch should never be this close to an actual power line. At this point, you’re playing with fire – literally. A tree this close to a power line is the ultimate fire hazard. In case something goes wrong and sparks start flying – that tree will turn into a tiki torch in a matter of minutes.
Not only that, imagine if it starts getting really windy and the tree’s crown start moving all over the place. There’s a pretty good chance that a branch could break and end up right in the power lines, causing a power outage for everyone on the block – in the best-case scenario. Worst case scenario – we’re back to an all-out fire and a few other things that are equally horrible.
So, 10 feet or closer is a no-no. If it gets that close – it’s chop-chop time.
3. A Tree Is Touching A Power Line
This would be an equivalent of an actual ticking bomb. Why? Well, all it takes is a little bit of wind for a branch to touch multiple lines at once and set an array of horrible things in motion. So, we won’t even waste too much time explaining this one to you.
The only thing you need to know at this point is to contact professionals who know how to handle this. Under no circumstances should you be the one that tries to cut branches. In fact, don’t even come close to a tree. Stay away and call for help.
Conclusion
In order to be safe – make sure that the trees are at least 50 feet away from the power lines. If they’re closer – cut them until they get too close.
