How to Safely Trim Trees Near Power Lines?

How to Safely Trim Trees Near Power Lines

Trimming trees near power lines is dangerous work that should not be performed by homeowners. In Ontario, overhead power lines remain energized at all times unless the utility specifically de-energizes them for scheduled work — and contact with a live conductor can be fatal. Here is who is responsible for line-clearing work and what options are available to you as a property owner.

Who Is Responsible for Trees Near Power Lines in Ontario

In Ontario, local distribution companies (LDCs) — Hydro One, Toronto Hydro, Ottawa Hydro, and others — are responsible for maintaining clearance between overhead distribution lines and vegetation. Most utilities have active vegetation management programs and will trim or remove trees that are growing into their conductors at no cost to the property owner.

Contact your local utility directly if branches are encroaching on power lines. They will assess the situation and schedule the work. Do not attempt to trim the tree yourself while waiting for the utility to respond.

Safe Approach Distances for Unqualified Workers

Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulation 851 define minimum distances that unqualified workers must maintain from energized overhead conductors:

• Distribution lines (up to 750 volts) — minimum 3 metres (approximately 10 feet) from any part of the body, tool, or equipment
• Higher voltage lines — greater minimum distances apply; the utility must be contacted before any work within 3 metres of any overhead conductor regardless of voltage

These distances apply to branches, ladders, ropes, and any tool or equipment. A pruning pole extending from a person on the ground that contacts a conductor still creates an electrocution hazard.

When You Need a Private Arborist Near Power Lines

If the tree work you need involves branches or limbs near power lines but not in the utility’s clearance zone — or if the utility has confirmed the affected lines are your service entrance conductors rather than distribution lines — a private arborist may be involved. In this case:

• Only use arborists trained in electrical hazard awareness (line-clearance arborist certification)
• Your licensed electrician can coordinate with the utility to have your service entrance conductors temporarily de-energized (a utility hold-off) before the arborist works in the area
• Never allow tree work to proceed with any person, equipment, or debris within 3 metres of energized conductors

Service Entrance Conductors vs Distribution Lines

The wires entering your home from the street are your service entrance conductors. Unlike distribution lines, the utility may permit a hold-off on the service entrance drop to allow safe access for electrical or tree work near the entry point. A licensed electrical contractor can coordinate this request with your utility on your behalf.

EZSMART coordinates utility hold-offs and service entrance work for residential and commercial properties across Ontario. Contact us if you need electrical work or tree clearance in proximity to your home’s service entrance.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp