Tree Pruning Guidelines

How We Prunes Trees

SDG&E prunes trees to industry and arboricultural standards in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the National Arbor Day Foundation.

Benefits of directional pruning techniques:

• Trees maintain a natural shape

• Reduction of weak branch re-growth.

• Allows for proper healing of injured trees

• Reduces frequency of pruning

SDG&E does not encourage the topping of trees or rounding over to a pre-determined clearance. Such pruning exposes trees to disease and decay.

Pruning trees near electrical power lines is dangerous and should be performed by a qualified professional. SDG&E uses professional contractors trained to prune trees near power lines.

It is against the law to attempt pruning trees near power lines yourself

Penal Code 385

Pruning Clearances

Clearances established at the time of pruning are based on several factors, including species, growth potential, tree position relative to the power lines, pruning history, and local site conditions.

Also, the potential for tree and wind sway and line sag are also factored. SDG&E achieves sufficient clearance to hold minimum clearance requirements for at least one annual pruning cycle.

Questions or Concerns

If you have a question or concern regarding trees near SDG&E facilities, please contact us for an evaluation.

• 1-800-411-7343