Trimming FAQs
Tree Trimming | About Trees | FAQs Section | Contact Us
Q: Why does Black Hills Power trim trees?
A: Black Hills Power trims trees to improve power reliability. Although weather patterns can affect the reliability of our power, tree trimming is bringing down the number of possible outages.
Q: How are trees trimmed?
A: The goal is to keep the trees healthy while making sure that they don't interfere with the power lines. We follow the lateral /directional pruning method developed by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and approved by the National Arborists Association, and National Arbor Day Foundation. Lateral pruning makes the overall structure of the tree stronger and more resistant to high winds and heavy ice. Further growth is directed away from power lines. Black Hills Power does not "top" trees, also known as rounding over or shaping. Topping is discouraged by the National Arbor Day Foundation because it makes trees more susceptible to disease and insect problems.
See illustrations of lateral pruning below.
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Before Trimming |
After Trimming |
The degree to which a tree is trimmed depends on several factors: the tree species, voltage of power lines, and how close branches are to those lines.
Q: Will I be notified of the tree trimming in my neighborhood?
A: Communication is a crucial element. You will receive an automated computer message on your phone before trimming begins. BHP will place a notice in the local newspaper. Then a work planner or crew leader will knock on your door & speak with you, or if you are not home they will leave a door hanger explaining that BHP or its contractor was there to perform needed trimming. You are encouraged to call the number on the door hanger should you have any questions.
Q: Who cleans up the debris after tree trimming?
A: Tree limb debris is picked up & chipped the day trimming occurs. If there is weather or equipment problems that hinder debris removal, then the contractor will notify the property owner by knocking on the door or leaving a door hanger to let them know when they will return to finish cleaning up. BHP does not clean up hazard trees in rural areas of our system or if the property owner is OK with leaving the debris. BHP does not clean up debris after any storm operations.
Q: Will Black Hills Power ever cut down a tree?
A: Occasionally trees near our electric facilities should be removed rather than trimmed. If a tree is diseased, dying, storm-damaged, or likely to be severely deformed by required trimming, then BHP or our contractor must obtain written permission from the owner of the tree to remove it. Trees near service lines that connect to the meter of individual homes and businesses are the property owner's responsibility & are not trimmed or removed by Black Hills Power.
Q: Where should I plant trees to avoid future problems?
A: Trees grow to varying heights. Before planting, visualize the height and spread of the tree in relation to nearby power lines. Also, for your safety, don't plant trees or large shrubs within 10 feet of a utility pole, and always call at least 48 hours before you dig to have underground utilities located – this is a free service.
Mature Tree Height |
Distance from Power Lines |
25 feet or less |
10 feet |
25 feet to 50 feet |
35 feet |
50 feet or more |
45 feet |
Q: Can BHP legally access my property and trim trees?
A: According to House Bill 1108 dated 01/29/99 – an Act to authorize public utilities or electric utilities to remove certain obstructions that may impair its operations.
Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of South Dakota:
Section 1. Any public utility or electric utility as defined in Sec.49-34A-1 and any utility operated by any political subdivision of the state may remove or alter any vegetation or other material if the utility determines that such removal or alteration is reasonably necessary for the safe repair, use, operation, or maintenance of the utility's electric or gas transmission or distribution lines.
Q: Who can I contact for tree trimming related questions?
A: Call our Line Maintenance Department at 605-721-2271.
