Tree Maintenance: Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about tree trimming
Easement and rights of access
Property impacts
Pruning
Mowing and planting

Why are trees trimmed near power lines?
Trees that grow too close to power lines can cause outages and safety hazards. Trimming helps prevent those issues before they happen.

How often does trimming happen?
Tree trimming follows a planned four year cycle, with additional work done as needed to address safety or reliability concerns.

Why does trimming sometimes look aggressive?
Trees are trimmed with future growth, wind movement, and storm conditions in mind—not just where branches are today.

Will I be notified before work happens?
Yes. For planned vegetation work, property owners are notified in advance. A mailed letter is sent about 30 days before work begins, and a door hanger is left at least 14 days before crews start, so you have time to review the work and ask questions.

What if I have concerns about trimming?
If you have questions or concerns, there are opportunities to discuss them before work begins by calling 800-253-0167 or emailing forestry@rienergy.com.

What is an easement or right-of-way?
An easement, or right-of-way, is a designated area that allows power lines and equipment to be installed, operated, and maintained. These areas help ensure power can be delivered safely and reliably.

Why do crews need access to easement areas?
Access allows crews to safely inspect, maintain, and repair power lines, especially during outages or after storms. Keeping these areas, accessible helps restore service faster when issues occur.

How do easements affect my property?
Easements don’t change property ownership, but they do limit certain activities within the area to protect power lines and allow safe access for maintenance.

How is the right to access my property established?
Access rights are typically defined through easement agreements or rights-of-way that were put in place when power lines were installed.

Will I be notified before work happens in an easement?
Yes. When planned vegetation work is scheduled, property owners are notified in advance and provided with information about what to expect.

Can I restrict access to an easement on my property?
Because easements are needed to safely operate and maintain power lines, access generally can’t be restricted. If you have concerns, there are opportunities to discuss them before work begins by calling 800-253-0167 or emailing forestry@rienergy.com.

What activities are allowed — or not allowed — within an easement?
Low growing vegetation and some landscaping may be allowed, but structures, tall trees, or anything that restricts access or threatens power lines are not permitted.

Will vegetation work damage my property?
Crews take care to minimize impacts, but some temporary disturbance may occur during vegetation work. Areas are left safe and accessible once work is complete.

What should I expect before, during, and after vegetation work?
Before work begins, you’ll receive notice. During work, you may see crews trimming trees, managing brush, or accessing rights-of-way. Afterward, work areas are cleared of debris and left in a safe condition.

Who is responsible if something is damaged during the work?
If damage occurs as a result of vegetation work, it can be reported so it can be reviewed and addressed.

Will my fence, driveway, or landscaping be affected?
In some cases, access to power lines may require working near fences or landscaping. Crews work to minimize impacts and restore access once work is finished.

Why does vegetation work sometimes change how an area looks?
Vegetation is managed with long-term reliability and safety in mind, not just appearance. Areas may look different at first but will regrow over time.

Why are trees pruned near power lines?
Trees that grow too close to power lines can cause outages and safety hazards. Pruning helps prevent branches from contacting lines, especially during storms.

Why does pruning sometimes look aggressive?
Trees are trimmed to account for future growth, wind movement, and storm conditions—not just where branches are today. This reduces repeat trimming and supports healthier growth.

How is it decided which branches are trimmed or removed?
Each tree is evaluated based on size, health, growth patterns, and proximity to power lines. The goal is safe clearance and long term reliability.

Are trees pruned differently depending on their location?
Yes. Trees near transmission lines, distribution lines, or service lines may be managed differently based on safety requirements and line type.

Do you follow industry standards when pruning trees?
Yes. Pruning is done using industry standard, science based methods designed to protect tree health while maintaining safe clearances.

Can I request pruning for a specific tree?
Vegetation work is planned by area or line segment rather than by individual request, but concerns about specific trees can be reported for review.

Why is mowing done in some areas?
Mowing helps keep rights-of-way clear so crews can safely access power lines and equipment. It also helps control fast-growing vegetation that could interfere with service.

How often are rights-of-way mowed?
Mowing is typically done on a multi‑year cycle, depending on location, vegetation growth, and system needs.

What types of plants are allowed near power lines?
Low growing trees, shrubs, and ground cover are usually best near power lines. These plants are less likely to interfere with equipment as they mature.

Can I plant trees or shrubs in an easement?
Some planting may be allowed, but tall growing trees and structures are not permitted. Choosing appropriate plants helps avoid future conflicts.

Why are some plants removed while others are left?
Plants that pose a risk to power lines or restrict access are removed, while compatible, low growing vegetation may remain.

How can I choose plants that won’t interfere with power lines?
Consider how tall and wide a plant will grow and how close it will be to overhead or underground utilities. Using “Right Tree, Right Place” guidance can help you make safe choices.