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Tree Trimming

Why is tree trimming necessary?
  • Dickson Electric recognizes the inconvenience of power outages and the danger of downed power lines.
  • Tree trimming aims to maintain a dependable electric system, minimize tree-related outages, and ensure public safety.
  • About 80% of power outages are due to trees and limbs on power lines.
  • Factors like high winds, ice, and decay can cause limbs to fall, damaging power lines and causing prolonged outages.
  • Trimming trees and managing vegetation within easements helps prevent avoidable outages and supports our mission of providing safe, reliable electric service to 36,000 customers.
Can DES legally trim trees?

Yes, DES can legally trim trees.

  • Court and legal system strongly support utilities’ rights to trim and remove trees or brush within and outside easements or right-of-ways for maintaining reliable electric system, reducing unnecessary outages, and ensuring public safety.
  • According to DES Operating Policies and Procedures, DES must maintain proper clearance within a 15-foot radius of distribution lines.
  • DES policy is in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated 65-23-106 which gives Public Utilities and Carriers the power to “use any right-of-way, easement or other similar property right necessary or convenient in connection with the acquisition, improvement, operation or maintenance of a system or systems, held by the state or any political subdivision thereof; provided, that the governing body of such political subdivision shall consent to such use [Tenn. Code Ann. § 65-23-106(8)].”
What method of trimming does DES use?

DES utilizes the following methods to achieve these goals:

  • Manual trimming
  • Bush hog mechanical removals

Pre-clearance Assesments

  • To ensure safe, reliable, and affordable power, DES trims and removes trees, limbs, vines, and brushes under service lines.
  • Certified arborist ACRT contracted for pre-clearance assessments.
  • ACRT surveys DES power-line routes, identifying areas needing clearance.
Who cleans up debris?

We work throughout the year to remove dangerous limbs from our power lines. Tree limbs that come into contact with the lines are the most common cause of power outages and can create serious safety issues.

Routine Trimming

  • Contractors remove tree limbs and make efforts to restore areas to previous conditions.
  • Small debris is left behind for natural degradation.
  • Customers can request ahead of time for the wood to be left for the property owner. Call (615) 441-6343 to speak with an ACRT representative.

Emergency Trimming

  • Despite proactive trimming, storm-related tree damage is inevitable.
  • When tree debris is caused by a storm or emergency situation, DES does not remove it.
  • Our crews must work quickly to restore power to all customers.
  • Crews may need to cut broken trees for line repairs.
  • Property owners responsible for removing storm-caused debris.
Will DES remove trees if necessary?
  • Trees growing too close to electric lines can't be aesthetically trimmed.
  • Decaying, dying, or storm-damaged trees pose a risk of falling onto power lines.
  • DES removes such trees to prevent potential hazards.
What can I do to help?
  1. Understand why tree pruning is vital for reliable power for yourself and your neighbors.
  2. Plan ahead before planting trees.
  3. Plant trees away from power lines, poles, and guy wires, which will ensure safe, natural growth and eliminate the need for extensive trimming.
  4. Trees that are well-planted and meticulously maintained may need periodic trimming to prevent new growth from affecting overhead power lines.
How often will trees be pruned?
  • DES aims for a complete pass of the distribution system every 4 years.
  • Trimming, removals, and spraying are scheduled to ensure up to 4 years of growth without line contact.
  • If necessary, DES may use these techniques more frequently to maintain line clearances.