Safety near 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.