Tree pruning and power lines

Our proactive approach

To provide safe and reliable power, SRP’s Vegetation Management program identifies necessary pruning work across the Valley on a two-year cycle.

Pruning needs are based on a variety of factors including species, growth rate, site conditions and type of electrical equipment. When a tree is selected for pruning, the customer will be notified by either an in-person visit, a doorhanger, phone call or email.

How we prune trees

SRP hires professional tree workers who are qualified to work near live power lines. They use a method called directional pruning, which is approved by the International Society of Arboriculture.

This method targets branches that are growing toward power lines while doing as little damage to the health of the tree as possible. Depending on the location and proximity of the tree to the electrical lines, the results can vary. See pruning examples below.

Palm encroachments

When palms are located underneath or to the side of power lines, they pose safety risks and could cause power outages during windy weather. Due to their growth habits, palms cannot be pruned and must be removed. SRP provides removal services at no cost to the customer.

Pruning trees on your property

SRP will only prune and remove trees or plants on your property that are growing too close to an overhead power line if the line is between two power poles.

SRP will not clear vegetation around power lines that run from a power pole to a home, business or streetlight.

If a tree or plant is growing close to a power line that runs from a power pole to your home or a structure on your property:

Planting power line-friendly trees

Choosing a power line-friendly tree is as easy as knowing how tall a tree will grow. If you’re planting within 25 feet of a power line, we recommend a tree that will grow no taller than 20 feet.

When planting near a power line, we recommend these types of trees and bushes:

Trees that will eventually grow taller than 20 feet should be planted at least 40 feet away from power lines.

Before you dig, call 811

Coming into contact with an underground power line can cause serious injuries — even death. Before digging on your property, contact Arizona 811 to find out what’s underground. Making the call is not only the first step for digging safely, it’s also the law.

Call 811 before you:

Preventing wildfires

SRP’s Vegetation Management program is continually developing methods to help reduce the risk of wildfire, like clearing vegetation and debris to create a defensible space around power line poles (DSAP) in high-risk areas.

By maintaining a DSAP of 10 feet, we reduce the amount of combustible material, greatly decrease the chances of wildfires and create wildfire buffers within the landscape. To ensure this space is kept clear, crews remove all vegetation and apply herbicide annually.

It is important to note that any vegetation within the DSAP is subject to removal, and we advise customers not to plant anything within 10 feet of utility poles.

Transmission Lines

Transmission lines require larger safety clearances than neighborhood distribution lines because of the higher voltage rating. These clearances help protect public safety and maintain a reliable power system. SRP inspects and maintains transmission lines each year in accordance with federal regulations.

Firewise vegetation

Commitment to sustainability

SRP’s Vegetation Management program partners with several organizations and municipalities across the Valley to help combat the urban heat island effect and reduce waste.