Electric Safety

If you plan to dig anywhere on public or private property, Oregon law requires you to contact the utility locating service before you dig. If you damage any utility facilities, you will be liable for repair costs.

You can reach the utility locating service in 2 ways:

  • Call 811
  • Visit the local 811 website and scroll down to the “Homeowners Online Locate Request” on the home page

811 is a free service that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Trees beautify homes and property, but care should be taken when planting trees near power lines.

Each year, power outages are caused by storms that bring trees or limbs down on lines. You can help minimize outages by taking a “power friendly” approach to landscaping your property.

  • 30 feet to 40 feet, Small Tree Zone: Trees less than 25 feet in height/spread at least 25 feet from lines
  • 50 feet to 60 feet, Medium Tree Zone: Trees 25 feet to 40 feet in height/spread at least 40 feet from lines
  • 70 feet or more, Large Tree Zone: Plant trees larger than 40 feet in height/spread at least 60 feet from lines

Remember these important safety tips for overhead power lines:

  • Look up before lifting ladders and other long-handled tools to avoid accidental contact with electric lines.
  • Stay away from fallen or dangling power lines. Don’t touch the lines. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
  • Contact us at (765) 653-1943 to report tree branches or limbs near power lines. Our tree-trimming crews are qualified to work around high-voltage lines, and can cut the limbs for you. Never attempt to do the trimming yourself.