View our tree facts and learn more about safely trimming trees and how to properly plant trees to prevent power outages.
What was the number one cause of outages during Hurricane Irma in 2017?
Trees
Trees were the number one cause of outages during Hurricane Irma.
How far should a large palm tree be kept from power lines?
20 feet
Large palm trees should be kept 20 feet back from power lines plus the length of the tree’s longest palm frond.
How far should a large tree like a ficus or oak be kept from power lines?
50 feet
Large trees that can grow to 50 feet or taller, such as a ficus or oak, should be setback a minimum of 50 feet from power lines.
How far should trees and other vegetation be kept from the front of transformers, (the green boxes in front of homes)?
8 feet
A “clear zone” of 8 feet should be maintained in the front and 3 feet in the back and on both sides of transformers.
Who should you call before you dig to plant a tree?
811
You should call 811 before you dig to plant a tree to safely avoid underground power lines and other utilities. The call is free and it’s the law.
How far should you keep yourself, or any objects you are holding, from neighborhood power lines?
10 feet
Customers should keep themselves and the end of any objects they are holding at least 10 feet way from neighborhood power lines.
Who should perform work to trim trees near power lines?
A licensed line-clearing professional.
Only qualified professionals should perform work trimming trees near power lines.
Go to our FAQs on trees to learn more.