Introduction
As the colorful leaves of fall begin to drop across Chattanooga, homeowners often notice just how close their trees have grown to overhead power lines. While autumn is a perfect season for pruning and preventive care, it’s also the time to double-check your property’s compliance with EPB (Electric Power Board of Chattanooga) and TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) vegetation management regulations.
This Fall 2025 homeowner’s guide explains what you can and can’t do near power lines, how Tree Worx coordinates with utilities to keep you safe, and why proper clearance is essential for both reliability and public safety.
Why Power-Line Clearance Matters This Fall
Falling branches and overgrown limbs are one of the top causes of power outages in the Chattanooga region, particularly during the storm-heavy months of October through December. Wet leaves, high winds, and saturated soil can cause branches to bend or break onto energized lines, creating major fire and safety hazards.
Proper clearance ensures:
- Reliable electricity during autumn storms.
- Protection for crews and homeowners.
- Healthy trees that are pruned correctly, not topped or hacked.
- Compliance with local and federal utility regulations.
Tree Worx LLC specializes in line-aware tree care that meets both EPB and TVA standards while preserving tree health and neighborhood aesthetics.
EPB’s Residential Tree Clearance Guidelines
Chattanooga’s EPB maintains strict vegetation management practices to protect the city’s power grid. According to their Vegetation Management Department, homeowners should maintain at least:
- 10 to 15 feet of clearance from primary distribution lines (the uppermost wires on the poles).
- 8 feet below and 10 feet to the sides of conductors for safe clearance.
EPB’s certified line-clearance arborists use directional pruning, not topping, to encourage regrowth away from lines. This keeps the tree’s natural shape intact and reduces decay or dieback.
If you notice a branch growing into power lines this fall, don’t attempt DIY trimming. Call Tree Worx or EPB directly. Tree Worx coordinates on-site safety assessments and handles clearance operations under proper supervision.
TVA Transmission Corridor Management
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) oversees large transmission corridors that carry high-voltage electricity across the region. TVA’s Right-of-Way Vegetation Management program mandates:
- Zero tall tree growth within the primary right-of-way corridor.
- Low-growing vegetation such as grasses, shrubs, and pollinator-friendly plants to maintain ecological balance.
- Inspection cycles every 3–5 years to prevent re-growth into critical conductors.
If your property borders a TVA corridor, planting or removing trees without authorization can result in fines or mandatory removals. Tree Worx works directly with TVA-approved guidelines to help homeowners manage vegetation safely and legally.
Common Tree Species That Threaten Utility Lines
Certain fast-growing or tall species are notorious for interfering with Chattanooga’s electric infrastructure. During fall pruning, Tree Worx often identifies high-risk species such as:
- Bradford pear (weak-wooded, fast regrowth)
- Silver maple (large, brittle limbs)
- Sweetgum (tall and narrow with shallow roots)
- Pine species (susceptible to windthrow)
For long-term safety, our arborists recommend low-maturing native alternatives for replanting near lines, including:
- Serviceberry
- Redbud
- Dogwood
- American holly
These trees mature under 25 feet tall, perfect for Chattanooga’s residential neighborhoods and right-of-way zones.
Fall Tree Maintenance Tips Near Power Lines
With fall storms increasing, now’s the time to evaluate your property’s power-line clearance. Follow these seasonal safety steps:
- Inspect after leaf drop. Falling leaves expose branch structure, making it easier to spot encroaching limbs.
- Check for sagging or storm-bent branches after high winds or rain.
- Call Tree Worx if limbs are within 10 feet of overhead lines.
- Avoid planting tall species directly under or near utility lines this fall.
- Schedule preventive pruning before winter weather sets in.
Tree Worx’s certified arborists are trained in line-clearance operations and coordinate permits, traffic control, and safety spotters as required by EPB and OSHA.
Safety Standards Tree Worx Follows
All Tree Worx crews operate under ANSI Z133 and OSHA line-clearance safety protocols to protect both personnel and property. This includes:
- Use of insulated tools and aerial lifts when necessary.
- Ground spotters and barricades for traffic and pedestrian control.
- Coordination with EPB/TVA before performing work near energized lines.
- Adherence to proper clearance distances and certified arboricultural standards.
Our priority is your safety, and your trees’ long-term health.
What Homeowners Can (and Can’t) Do
Allowed:
- Trim small branches more than 10 feet away from power lines.
- Maintain low-growing shrubs and groundcover under service lines.
Not Allowed:
- DIY trimming or cutting branches within 10 feet of energized conductors.
- Removing large limbs that could fall onto service drops.
- Planting tall species directly beneath lines.
Tree Worx handles all line-proximity work legally and safely, ensuring no code or safety violations occur.
Coordinating with EPB and TVA
When scheduling your fall tree trimming or removal, Tree Worx can act as your liaison with local utilities. We:
- Verify line type (primary, secondary, or service drop).
- Submit line-clearance notifications to EPB if required.
- Provide crane-assisted removals near energized lines.
- Document the work for your insurance or property records.
This proactive coordination prevents service interruptions and ensures compliance with city and state standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I trim a tree near my service line?
Homeowners can trim small branches near low-voltage service lines, but Tree Worx recommends calling a professional if the branches are closer than 10 feet.
Will EPB trim trees for free?
Yes, EPB may prune or remove trees threatening primary lines within their easements. Tree Worx can help determine whether EPB will cover your case.
What if a storm knocks down a line or tree?
Call 911 and EPB immediately for live wires. Then contact Tree Worx for safe emergency tree removal and debris cleanup.
Can I plant new trees near power lines?
Yes, but select low-growing native trees like redbud or dogwood to avoid future clearance issues.
Keep your power lines clear and your property safe this fall. Contact Tree Worx LLC for expert, utility-compliant tree trimming, pruning, or removal across Chattanooga, Ooltewah, Hixson, and Signal Mountain.