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At ComEd, we trim vegetation along powerlines on a routine cycle. We use the Natural Method of Tree Trimming technique, which prevents unsightly sucker growth while meeting the standards of the American National Standards Institute. Our contractors are specially trained to trim trees in close proximity to electrical conductors and are trained in the proper arboricultural techniques.
If you plan to have a tree care professional trim around the wires attached to your house, please contact ComEd at least 5 business days in advance at 1-800-Edison-1. If necessary, we will temporarily de-energize wires during trimming.
Whether you use ComEd contractors or arrange for your own tree care, always leave it to the pros. Tree trimming near electrical wires can be deadly. Only persons trained in the special techniques essential to working safely around energized lines should do so. Touching a branch that is in contact with an energized line can result in injury or death. For your safety, never attempt to trim or remove a tree that is growing near a power line. Instead, call 1-800-Edison-1 and a ComEd representative will advise you on how to get the job done safely.
Right of Way (R.O.W) is the corridor where electrical towers or wood poles are located. The lines that run along right-of-ways carry the transmission voltage electricity (138 kV - 765 kV). ComEd either has an easement for these lines or the company owns the property where the lines are located.
Mowing - In many areas, ComEd mows the grass on the R.O.W. up to five times a year from April to October. The R.O.W. is maintained as field mowing or meadow, not as a lawn or turf area. ComEd does not spray the R.O.W. for broadleaf weeds (Dandelion) or ticks. ComEd R.O.W. are available to adjoining homeowners for "Garden Leases" through the ComEd Real Estate Department.
Restoring the Native Prairie Species - To restore native prairie species to Illinois, ComEd has begun planting native prairie grass on selected R.O.W. The natural vegetation provides a colorful and diverse plant community on the R.O.W. corridor.
Dumping is Prohibited - ComEd R.O.W. are private property and dumping of any kind is strictly prohibited. ComEd will prosecute anyone found dumping on R.O.W. property. If you observe illegal dumping, please call 1-800-Edison-1 to report it.
When it comes to trimming or prevention, prevention is the preferred method. Utilities are required to do what is necessary to provide safe, reliable, and least-cost electric service. Trimming trees is sometimes the only solution in dangerous situations. The closer a tree grows to high-voltage lines the more pruning is necessary. Only those branches that are likely to be a threat to reliability or safety are pruned.
The ideal way to prevent powerlines and trees from getting in each other's way is to plant shorter varieties near powerlines. The Morton Arboretum recommends trees and shrubs that grow to 25 feet in height or less, such as Hawthorn, Amur Maple, Ivory Silk Japanese Tree Lilac, Eastern Redbud, Serviceberry and Flowering Crabapples.
Trees that should NOT be planted near powerlines include: Silver Maple, Norway Maple, Sugar Maple, Oak, Bradford Pear, Pine, Sycamore, Ash, Honey Locust, Willow, Linden, and Spruce.
