Vegetation Management
Frequently Asked Questions
Trees add to the beauty of our community, but trees growing too close to power lines can be dangerous. Tree limbs coming into contact with power lines are major causes of power outages. By pruning trees before outages happen, we can help maintain reliable electric service.
Q | How much will you prune from the trees?
A | The amount of pruning varies based on tree type, growth habits, tree health and relative location to the power lines.
Q | What standards do you follow?
A | Atlantic City Electric’s tree pruning is performed following the standards and practices as outlined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) publication A300. This standard for line clearance is followed by nearly all electric utilities in the United States.
Q | Can I prune my own trees?
A | Tree pruning near electric power lines can result in severe injury or death. You should not attempt to prune any tree or vegetation growing near or through power lines.
Q | Can Altantic City Electric prune a tree on my property?
A | Atlantic City Electric will investigate requests for removal of tree limbs that may endanger our power lines. Our contractor’s inspectors will explain to the property owner what tree work we will have done.
Q | Can Atlantic City Electric recommend a company in my area for tree work?
A | Atlantic City Electric does not recommend specific contractors. Consumers should check to see that the contractor is licensed and insured, and complies with all applicable laws, codes, ordinances and permits including OSHA and ANSI regulations.
Q | Who do I call if I have a complaint or question about tree pruning?
A | If you received a special door hanger notifying you of tree-pruning activity in your neighborhood, you should contact the forestry representative listed on the door hanger. Otherwise, you may contact Atlantic City Electric at 1-800-642-3780 and ask to have someone in our forestry department call you.
Q | Will you clean up and remove the debris?
A | When pruning is done as part of our scheduled tree maintenance program, debris will be removed. We will not remove debris from storm-damaged trees.
Q | Do you have any advice for planting trees under or near power lines?
A | Yes, here are a few things to consider:
Call before you dig: Local laws require homeowners and businesses to call 3-10 business days in advance to verify the location of underground utility lines. Call New Jersey OneCall at 1-800-272-1000.
Plant the right tree in the right place: When selecting a tree, consider the ultimate mature height of the tree. Small trees, those less than 25 feet tall, are the only trees that should be considered for under or near power lines. Examples of small trees suitable for our area include dogwood, redbud and flowering cherry. Check with a local nursery for a more complete list.
