Landscaping and tree safety for homeowners

Simple steps to keep your yard safe around power lines.

Safe trimming on your property

If you are trimming trees or shrubs near overhead power lines in the Collingwood service area, safety comes first.

If you’ll be working within 7 metres of any overhead line, call EPCOR before you start.
If branches are within 1 metre of the service line to your home, EPCOR must disconnect the line first.

We disconnect and reconnect your service line at no cost.

Call EPCOR before you trim: 705‑445‑1800

Planting safely near power lines

When choosing trees or shrubs, think about how tall they will grow and how close they will be to overhead lines. Planting zones help homeowners in the Collingwood area place trees safely.

Planting zones

Zone 1: 0 to 1 metre from the pole
No digging is allowed.

Zone 2: Within 5 metres of overhead lines
Trees and shrubs must mature under 6 metres tall.

Zone 35 to 10 metres from overhead lines
Trees can grow up to 12 metres tall.

Zone 4: More than 10 metres away
Trees of any height are safe.

Your local greenhouse or nursery can help you pick species that fit these guidelines.

Note: For the overhead power service line to your house, keep the tree or shrub at least 1 metre away from the line.

Hiring a tree contractor

If you hire someone to trim or remove a tree near power lines, make sure they are trained for this type of work.

A Certified Utility Arborist has special training for working near electrical equipment. Regular arborists may not know how dangerous electricity can be. Power can arc from a line to equipment even when there is no direct contact.

You can find a Certified Utility Arborist through the ISA Directory.

Digging or removing a stump

Before doing any ground work, always contact:

Ontario One Call
OntarioOneCall.ca
1‑800‑400‑2255

They will mark underground utilities for free.

forest

EPCOR's tree maintenance program

Learn why trimming trees is important, how often crews visit neighbourhoods, and what to expect when tree trimming is planned near your home.

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Are you a Certified Utility Arborist?

Working near energized lines is dangerous. Find the safety rules, clearance requirements, and EPCOR contact information you need before starting work.