Palm Trees & Power Lines

Palm trees grow in a unique way, making CenterPoint Energy’s normal tree-trimming techniques ineffective. Typically, we have no choice but to cut down palm trees within 10 feet of power lines.

Plant tall-growing palm trees so – at maturity – they’ll be at least 10 feet from power lines.

What happens when palm trees contact power lines?

Palm fronds are extremely flammable. When they make contact with an energized power line, the fronds can conduct electricity and create a safety hazard. Like all vegetation, when palm trees contact overhead lines they may create a power outage for you and your neighbors.

Why can’t palm trees be pruned like other trees?

Because of palm trees’ single-growth point, normal pruning techniques are not necessarily effective. Palm fronds can regenerate in a few short months, well before the utility’s next scheduled maintenance. If a palm tree was planted too close to power lines, its rapid growth cycle creates an ongoing hazard.

Will my palm tree be removed if it’s too close to a power line?

It is often necessary for CenterPoint to top or remove a palm tree that is inappropriately located. When we remove a palm tree, we cut it as close to the ground as practical. The stump will not be ground or removed. Before your palm tree grows to within 10 feet of power lines, you may arrange for qualified professionals to relocate the tree at your expense. Before digging, always call 811 to locate underground utility lines.

Can I prune my palm trees near power lines?

No. Serious injury or death can occur when untrained homeowners or workers attempt to prune trees around energized power lines.

Both OSHA regulations and Texas State law permit only qualified professionals authorized by CenterPoint Energy to trim or remove trees next to energized power lines. These professionals have been properly trained and equipped to safely work near power lines.

As stated above (Why can’t palm trees be pruned like other trees?), we generally have no choice but to remove palm trees within 10 feet of electrical lines.

For More Information

If you have questions, call CenterPoint Energy at 713-207-2222 or 1-800-332-7143 to arrange to speak with a forester.