What if there are power lines over or around my tree?

When removing a tree, it is very important that you are aware of any overhead utilities that are near or travel through the tree. Utility companies (Xcel Energy or Dakota Electric) must be notified of the situation in advance of the tree’s removal so that they may assist you properly. When contacting a utility company, make sure you inform them that you have an infested/diseased tree, and give them your removal deadline. If there are any delays, notify the Forestry office at 952-985-2724.

There are two common scenarios that can occur when your tree is near power lines:

Pole-to-Pole: When lines in your tree are connected between service poles, they provide electric service to more than one residence. The utility company usually prefers to handle trees around these lines by removing as much of the tree as necessary to prevent damage to their lines and to make it “safe” for other contractors to remove. They may remove only a portion of the tree and leave the remaining wood debris. It is your responsibility to dispose of any debris left on site.

Pole-to-House: When lines in your tree are connected from the service pole to a house or structure, they provide electric service to that structure. It is common for the utility company to disconnect the service lines involved while you or your contractor remove the tree. They will then reconnect the service lines after the work is complete. You should set a specific time for disconnection and reconnection of your service to facilitate both the efficient removal of the tree and the restoration of your service.

Contact Information:

  • Dakota Electric Association: 651-463-6287
  • Xcel Energy: 800-895-4999

Show All Answers

1. What is a Minnesota Certified Tree Inspector?
2. What is an ISA Certified Arborist?
3. What should I ask for when I am hiring an arborist or tree company?
4. What happens when a tree is infested with emerald ash borer, or diseased with oak wilt and/or Dutch elm disease and is marked for removal?
5. What are the removal requirements for an infested/diseased tree?
6. What does DBH mean? What factors influence how much a tree will cost to remove?
7. How do I dispose of the wood and brush debris?
8. Does the stump have to be ground out and removed?
9. What If I don’t think I can complete the removal requirements within the provided timeline?
10. Should I notify the City when work is complete? How do I tell if my property has been re-inspected?
11. Does the City of Lakeville offer replacement trees for removed infested/diseased trees?
12. How did the Tree Inspector determine property lines? What if I don’t think the tree is on my property?
13. What if there are power lines over or around my tree?
14. Does the City mark infested and diseased trees on its own property?