Customers often have questions about how and why Dominion Energy manages trees and plants near our power lines. We cut trees and brush adjacent to our rights of way (the areas around power lines) to maintain safe, reliable and economic electric service, and to provide quicker access for our crews during service restoration and maintenance work.

We follow the American National Standard for Tree Care Operations (ANSI A300) for tree trimming—supported by arborists and other tree care experts. This method helps direct future growth away from power lines while leaving remaining limbs intact.

ANSI A300 trimming may appear drastic at first but results in healthier trees long-term since fewer cuts are used. Affected areas callous quickly, reducing decay and allowing for future trimming that may be less noticeable.

Learn more about our trimming process and schedule below.