Trees and Power Lines in Downeast Maine: When to Call a Utility Arborist
What homeowners and camp owners need to know about trees growing near electrical lines.
Trees and overhead power lines are common neighbors in Downeast Maine. Tall spruce, pine, and hardwoods often grow right along roads, driveways, and property lines—and that can create questions (and worries) when branches start getting close to the wires.
This post will help you understand when it’s time to call for utility line tree work, when the electric utility needs to be involved, and why hiring a licensed Maine utility arborist is so important.
Why Trees Near Power Lines Are a Concern
Branches growing into or over power lines can lead to:
- Power outages during wind, snow, and ice storms
- Arcing or sparking if branches contact energized lines
- Damage to lines or poles when trees fail
- Risk of electrical shock if someone tries to cut or move limbs themselves
Even if you’ve never had an issue before, it only takes one good storm to turn a borderline situation into a serious problem.
What Counts as “Too Close” to Power Lines?
Every situation is a little different, but you should definitely pay attention when:
- Branches are touching or resting on power lines
- Limbs move into the lines when the wind blows
- A tree is leaning toward the lines after a storm
- Trees growing under lines have never been pruned and are now reaching into them
In some cases, the electric utility is responsible for maintaining clearance on the main lines. In others—especially service lines leading from the pole to your house or camp—the responsibility may fall on the property owner.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle Trees Near Lines Yourself
Tree work around electrical lines is not a DIY project. It is dangerous to:
- Use ladders, pole saws, or long-handled tools near wires
- Cut branches resting on or tangled in lines
- Try to move trees that have fallen into lines after a storm
Even branches that don’t look like they’re touching lines can carry electricity if they are wet, leaning, or touching other energized material. The safest option is always to step back and call a professional.
What Is a Utility Arborist?
A utility arborist is an arborist with additional training and licensing to work near power lines. In Maine, a licensed Maine utility arborist understands:
- Clearance requirements around different types of lines
- Safe work practices near energized lines
- When the electric utility must be involved before work can begin
Born Free Tree Care, LLC is a licensed Maine utility arborist and provides tree work near power lines in Hancock and Washington County.
When to Call the Electric Utility First
There are situations where your electric utility should be your first call, including:
- Trees or branches resting directly on primary lines along the road
- Lines pulled down by a fallen tree
- Sparking, arcing, or smoking around wires
- Any time you are not sure if a line is energized
After the utility has made the area safe, a utility arborist can then handle pruning or removal on your property.
What a Utility Arborist Can Help You With
For many homeowners and camp owners in Downeast Maine, a utility arborist can:
- Inspect trees near service lines leading to your house or camp
- Prune branches back to improve clearance where appropriate
- Remove hazard trees that could fall into lines during storms
- Recommend long-term plans for planting and managing trees around lines
Trees & Power Lines Around Your Home or Camp
If your property has overhead lines running through or along the edge of your trees, it’s smart to get ahead of problems before the next big storm.
Born Free Tree Care, LLC offers utility line and power-adjacent tree work throughout Ellsworth, Bar Harbor, MDI, Blue Hill, Machias, and surrounding areas.
Next step: Visit the Contact page and let us know where you’re located, what you’re seeing near your lines, and whether you’ve already spoken with your electric utility. We’ll help you understand your options and the safest path forward.
