At People’s Electric Cooperative (PEC), providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity starts with keeping power lines clear. That’s why right-of-way (ROW) maintenance, including tree trimming and vegetation control, is a vital part of our service.
Why Tree Trimming Matters
- Reliability: Trees are a leading cause of power outages. Overgrown limbs can trigger blinking lights, outages, and downed lines, especially during Oklahoma’s severe weather. PEC uses full-time ROW crews, vegetation management contractors, drone inspections, and seasonal vegetation control to prevent problems before they start.
- Safety: Trees near power lines create serious risks. Electricity can arc to limbs, creating danger for the public and crews. Only trained professionals should handle fallen limbs near power lines.
- Affordability: Preventative trimming is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs. Our ground-to-sky policy keeps a 30-foot-wide easement clear, reducing repeat trimming and helping keep rates stable.
How You Can Help
- Plant wisely: When planting trees, consider their mature height. Medium-height trees (40 feet or less) should be planted at least 25 feet from power lines. Tall trees (over 40 feet) should be planted at least 50 feet away.
- Keep transformers clear: Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance in front of pad-mounted transformers' doors and 4 feet on the sides to allow safe access for maintenance. 750601407
- Don’t trim near power lines: Never attempt to trim trees near power lines yourself — always leave this work to trained professionals.
- Report hazardous trees: If you see a tree growing dangerously close to power lines or at risk of falling, contact PEC’s Vegetation Management Department at (580) 332-3031.
At PEC, we understand the importance of balancing reliability with preserving our beautiful surroundings. Our right-of-way maintenance program helps ensure safe, dependable service while keeping costs low for our members. Together, we’re clearing the way for safer, more reliable power.