Utility Line Safety: What Homeowners Need to Know About Tree Placement
June 10, 2025
When it comes to landscaping, many homeowners focus on curb appeal, shade, and property value. But overlooking the impact of tree placement on utility lines can lead to dangerous and expensive problems. At West Atlanta Tree Service, we’re here to help you understand how to plant trees safely—without putting your home, your neighbors, or your utilities at risk.
Why Tree Placement Matters
Trees grow—upward, outward, and underground. That beautiful sapling near your driveway could turn into a safety hazard if it interferes with overhead power lines or underground utilities. Poor placement can result in:
- Power outages
- Utility service disruptions
- Expensive repairs
- Safety hazards for your family and neighborhood
Being proactive about tree placement isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Overhead Utility Line Safety
The Problem with Overhead Lines
Planting tall or fast-growing trees too close to overhead power lines can cause major issues. Branches may touch or fall on live wires, especially during storms, leading to:
- Power loss
- Fire risk
- Hazardous working conditions for utility crews
West Atlanta Tree Service Tip
To avoid these risks, plant low-growing trees (typically under 25 feet tall at maturity) at least 10 feet away from overhead lines. Avoid placing medium or tall species anywhere near them. When in doubt, our team can help you choose and place trees that grow safely in your yard.
Underground Utility Lines: The Hidden Danger
Tree roots can spread wide and deep—seeking out moisture from underground water and sewer lines. Over time, these roots can crush pipes, wrap around cables, and disrupt essential services.
Call Before You Dig
Before you plant any tree, always call 811 to have underground utilities marked. This free national service can prevent thousands of dollars in damage—and help you avoid dangerous mistakes like cutting into a gas or water line.
Choosing the Right Tree for the Right Place
Not all trees are created equal when it comes to utility line safety. For smaller yards or areas near utilities, we recommend choosing:
- Trees with compact, shallow root systems
- Slow-growing or dwarf species
- Trees with mature heights under 25 feet
By working with West Atlanta Tree Service, you can choose trees that enhance your landscape without threatening your utilities.
Maintenance Matters Too
Even if your trees are well-placed, proper care is essential. We recommend:
- Regular pruning to prevent branch interference with power lines (leave high work to our trained crew)
- Routine root inspections, especially for older trees
- Strategic planning for any new additions to your landscape
Serving West Atlanta with Safety and Expertise
At West Atlanta Tree Service, we’re committed to helping homeowners plant and maintain trees that are both beautiful and safe. Our certified arborists can inspect your property, advise on tree placement, and perform expert pruning to protect your home and community.
Protect Your Property. Plant Smart.
If you’re planning to plant new trees or concerned about existing ones near utility lines, give West Atlanta Tree Service a call today. We’ll help you avoid hazards, stay compliant with local regulations, and make the most of your landscape.
Tree Service, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Stump Removal
Bowdon, Bremen, Buchanan, Carrollton, Cedartown, Dallas, Douglasville, Franklin, Hiram, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Newnan, Palmetto, Rockmart, Roopville, Tallapoosa, Temple, Villa Rica, and Whitesburg Georgia and Abernathy, Fruithurst, Heflin, Macedonia, Muscadine, and Ranburne Alabama.
West Atlanta Tree Service
Carrollton, Ga 30116
770-830-3828
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