Stay safe around power lines
Tree and power line safety
Learn what's overhead
Different types of overhead lines may be visible in your neighborhood. Tree safety work and vegetation clearance requirements will vary depending upon the type of line.

PG&E power lines
Transmission
Usually located on metal towers up to 180 feet tall, they transport high-voltage electricity and serve entire cities and towns. We maintain year-round clearances around these lines to reduce the likelihood of power outages across large areas.
Distribution–primary
Usually located at the top of wood poles above the pole-mounted transformer, they deliver into local neighborhoods. We maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches around these power lines, with high fire-threat areas requiring a minimum 4-foot clearance.
Distribution–secondary
Usually located below primary lines on the same poles beneath the pole-mounted transformer, they typically carry electricity directly to homes or businesses through connected service wires. We clear vegetation from secondary lines if we determine there is strain or abrasion.
Service wires
Wires that connect directly from secondary lines to your home or business. Customers are responsible for maintaining service wires to keep them free of vegetation.
Non-PG&E lines
Communication lines
Lowest lines on the wood utility pole. These are telecommunication wires, which are usually black and appear thicker than power lines. We do not own or maintain these wires, and it's common to see trees and vegetation near them.
If you see trees or vegetation growing too close to overhead power lines maintained by PG&E, or to request a free temporary service disconnect, please contact us at 1-800-743-5000.
Stay safe
Whether you're pruning trees, decorating for the holidays or keeping up with home maintenance, follow these tips to stay safe around power lines:
Look up
Be aware of your surroundings. Look for any nearby power lines.
Keep all objects away
Keep equipment, ladders, antennas, kites and metallic balloons away from power lines. Also, tools with long handles, such as brooms and rakes.
Don't touch
Never touch a power line with an object or any part of your body.
Tell your kids
Never climb transmission towers, utility poles or trees near power lines.
Work at a safe distance
Keep at least 10 feet away from power lines.
Report downed power lines
Stay at least 25 feet away and call 9-1-1 immediately. Then, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
Community Wildfire Safety Program
PG&E is continuing to evolve to strengthen and improve our electric system for the safety of our customers and communities.
Make sure your contact information is up to date
To make sure you can get a message if a coming outage could impact your home or business, it is important we have your current contact information.

These situations can bring down power lines
Stay far away from downed lines caused by:
- Vehicle accidents
- Wildfires
- Snow loading
- Wind and rain, stormy weather
- Tree limbs failing, including summer “limb drop”

Avoid digging into underground lines
Power lines can be located anywhere, including underground. Always call 8-1-1 before you dig.

We're here to help
Your safety is our top priority.
Pruning trees near power lines?
Call 1-800-743-5000 before you start your work.
Digging or planting on your property?
Call 8-1-1 beforehand to ensure you stay safe. Learn why it’s important for everyone to understand the hazards of digging.