3 min read
Trees growing close to electricity cables are a genuine hazard, and they're treated differently to ordinary garden trees. The short answer is that you should never attempt work near power lines yourself, and in many cases it's the network operator's responsibility.
Who is responsible?
For the high-voltage overhead lines that run across the country, the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) for your region is responsible for keeping vegetation a safe distance from the cables, and they carry out this work using specially trained teams.
For the lower-voltage service cable that runs from the network to your own property, responsibility can be less clear-cut. If a tree is close to that line, contact your DNO for advice, they can tell you who should deal with it and may arrange for the power to be isolated if work is needed.
Why you must never do it yourself
Electricity can arc, it doesn't need direct contact to be lethal. Cutting a tree near a live cable, or using a ladder or pole near one, is extremely dangerous. This work should only ever be done by trained professionals, and often only once the line has been made safe by the network operator.
What to do if a tree is near a power line
If a tree on or near your property is close to overhead cables, keep well clear and contact your local Distribution Network Operator, who can advise and arrange any necessary work. If a tree has fallen onto a line or a cable is down, treat it as an emergency and call the electricity emergency number (105 in Great Britain).
For any other tree work at a safe distance from cables, we're happy to help, and if we spot a line nearby during a job, we'll always flag it and take the safe approach.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice, and details can change. For anything specific to your situation, get in touch and we'll be glad to help.