Whilst trees aren’t exactly the active type, over time they can grow wild and dangerous if not kept in check. Take power lines as an example: they don’t know not to grow near them or the damage that can be caused should they strike them. They simply grow where they want to, or rather, arbitrarily. Then begs the question, who is responsible for trimming trees around power lines? Is it you? The power company responsible for the mains in your area? The council? In this article, we will aim to clear it up for you so that you know exactly where you stand.
What if the tree is on your property?
Unfortunately, as you may have already guessed, it is your responsibility if the tree is on your property. You must trim back any trees or vegetation that are within your border if they are branching close to power lines. Of course, in this event—if your trees do indeed need trimming—we would highly advise that you ask a tree lopping company to assist you. Removing foliage that is close to foliage is an incredibly dangerous task and you wouldn’t want to cause any unnecessary damage to the power lines either (your neighbours won’t like you much if you cause a street-wide power cut)!
What if the tree is on your neighbour’s property?
Just like you are responsible for the trees on your property, your neighbour must take care of theirs. That said, if you spot a tree branching dangerously close to a power line, then we would encourage you to let them know that it is indeed their responsibility to sort it out. In fact, they will likely be incredibly grateful for the nudge as many people can let it go unnoticed until disaster strikes.
If anything, do it for yourself, as if a tree brings down the powerlines and you live next door, the likelihood is you won’t be watching any television until it’s fixed!
What if the tree is on public land?
You guessed it! If the tree is on public land, then you do not have to worry about anything. Local councils are responsible for keeping the vegetation that they have planted or cultivated on public property safe and in check; so, you should (ideally) never spot anything dangerous. Of course, if you do happen to notice something, you are welcome to notify the local council just in case they haven’t clocked onto it yet.
When it comes to all naturally occurring trees and vegetation on the other hand, then Western Power are responsible for taking care of it.
Of course, it can be sometimes it can be impossible to identify whether a tree has occurred naturally or if it has been planted purposefully by the council. So, if you aren’t sure, then simply go ahead and notify the council first and then can then react accordingly.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the only time that you are personally responsible (and thus accountable) for the powerlines is when your trees are within close proximity to them. Otherwise, you don’t have to worry yourself about it. Even if your trees aren’t particularly close to the power lines now, it could be worth consulting your local arborist for advice on shaping your trees and preventing them from branching towards the power cables in the future. They can advise you accordingly on pruning and trimming schedules and other handy tree maintenance tips as well.
