It's important to distinguish between higher-voltage transmission lines, which are generally located on large steel towers or poles within rights-of-way owned by CenterPoint Energy, and comparatively lower-voltage distribution lines, which are usually on wooden poles along roadways or in easements along property lines. Much greater clearance from trees is needed for high-voltage transmission lines than for distribution lines.
Distribution
- Why plant trees?
- What should I do before planting new trees?
- How can I avoid having trees trimmed or removed because of power lines?
- If I plant a tree too close to power lines, will it be removed?
- What will my trimmed trees look like?
- How are trees trimmed?
- Will the trees ever regain a natural appearance?
- Will the trees die?
- If a fruit or pecan tree is currently bearing fruit or nuts, can you wait until the fruit ripens or the nuts drop before trimming the tree?
- Can I request trimming if my trees are close to power lines?
- What if I want a tree removed instead of trimmed?
- Will you also remove dead trees?
- How long do I have to wait for the debris to be cleaned up from my property?
- How much does tree trimming cost?
- Do you trim trees away from phone, TV, or DSL lines?
- Do you trim trees or vegetation away from street lights or security lights?
- What about vines on utility poles or guy wires?
- Can I trim my trees around the power lines in my yard?
- Who can I talk to if I have more questions?
Transmission
- Can I plant trees near power transmission lines?
- Can I plant trees in an open area inside a transmission line right-of-way?
- How can I avoid having trees trimmed or removed because of power lines?
- How does CenterPoint Energy determine if trees need to be removed from areas bordering transmission rights-of-way or merely trimmed?
- What does a tree trimmed away from a transmission line look like?
- Who can I talk to if I have more questions?
For a printable version of the complete FAQs, download the Tree Trimming Practices brochure from the Quick Links, above right.*
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