Trees near power lines
OG&E handles trees near its pole-to-pole lines; the line from the pole to your house is yours. Here is how its right-of-way program works, from OG&E's own pages.
OG&E's right-of-way program
- Certified line-clearance arborists prune and remove trees on a routine schedule; OG&E estimates 2.3 million trees grow near its overhead lines and it trims or removes about 170,000 a year (OG&E Vegetation Management).
- Throughout 2026, OG&E is trimming trees in Oklahoma City in phases by neighborhood (OG&E Vegetation Management).
- The goal is a four-year cycle; some areas wait longer (OG&E vegetation FAQ).
- Most trees are pruned 10 to 14 feet from the wires; large-growing trees directly under wires or near poles, 10 inches across or smaller, may be removed (OG&E vegetation FAQ).
- Small limbs from routine work are chipped and hauled; wood over 4 inches thick may be left on site as firewood (OG&E vegetation FAQ).
- To request trimming, debris removal or an evaluation, use the Vegetation Management form (OG&E Vegetation Management).
What is yours
- The service drop, the line from the pole to your house, is the owner's to keep clear. A regular tree service may prune near it; OG&E suggests asking for a temporary disconnect if you do it yourself (OG&E vegetation FAQ).
- After storms, crews move debris to the curb, but disposal is your responsibility (OG&E Vegetation Management).
The 10-foot rule
State and federal rules require training and certification for anyone working within 10 feet of a high-voltage line, and only OG&E-approved line-clearance contractors may work there (OG&E vegetation FAQ). For a dead tree or planned work closer than 10 feet, ask OG&E for a safety inspection first (same source).
Planting near lines
- Do not plant trees or shrubs under power lines or within 6 feet of poles or green pedestals (OG&E vegetation FAQ).
- Plant about as far from the line as the tree's mature height, call 811 first, and stay 6 feet to the side of underground lines (same source).
Checked Oct 23, 2026 against OG&E's Vegetation Management page and FAQ.
Newer guides: Tree trimming prices · Stump grinding cost · Where to take limbs
Last checked Oct 23, 2026.