Introduction: When Trees Meet Power Lines
Atlanta’s vibrant greenery is one of the city’s most beloved features. Mature hardwoods line neighborhoods, creating natural canopies and curb appeal. But when storms strike or aging trees finally fail, those beautiful assets can become significant hazards—especially when they fall onto power lines.
A tree falling on power lines presents not only a logistical problem but also a life-threatening danger. High-voltage electricity, potential fire, blocked roads, and damaged structures all come into play in seconds. It’s not a simple matter of cutting and hauling—it’s a job that requires expertise, timing, and specialized tools.
At 770 Arborist Emergency Tree & Crane Service, we’ve responded to hundreds of these high-risk situations throughout Atlanta, Canton, Roswell, and the surrounding metro areas. Backed by over 60 years’ combined experience, we understand how to respond quickly, coordinate with utilities, and safely remove trees entangled with electrical infrastructure.
This guide explains exactly what happens when a tree falls on power lines—and why choosing a licensed, insured, and specialized team like 770 Arborist is essential.
Understanding the Danger: Why Power Lines Are High-Risk
A fallen tree resting on or near power lines poses risks far beyond property damage. Electrical current can be deadly, and its reach can extend beyond what the eye can see.
Here’s what makes power line incidents uniquely dangerous:
- Electrocution: Electricity can arc from wires through trees, wet wood, or even standing water.
- Fire Hazards: Sparks can ignite branches, mulch, roofing, or structures nearby.
- Infrastructure Failure: Broken lines can knock out power to dozens or hundreds of homes.
- Secondary Injury Risks: Shockwaves or falling debris from improperly cut limbs can injure bystanders or responders.
These hazards often require joint action between utility crews and certified tree professionals who have the training, insurance, and equipment to operate safely near electrical infrastructure.
What to Do Immediately After a Tree Hits Power Lines
If a tree has fallen onto power lines or is close to doing so, your response should be calm, measured, and extremely cautious.
Follow these steps:
- Stay away. Maintain a safe distance of at least 35 feet. Electricity may travel through wet ground or adjacent objects.
- Do not touch anything. That includes the tree, wires, fencing, or metal nearby.
- Keep others safe. Move family members and pets indoors, and notify neighbors if necessary.
- Call 911 and your power company. Utility crews must shut off the power before anything else happens.
- Contact 770 Arborist. Our team is trained to respond once utility crews confirm safety.
Assume every power line is energized until confirmed otherwise by a utility professional. Even seemingly harmless lines can carry dangerous current.
Why You Should Never Attempt DIY Tree Removal Near Power Lines
Many homeowners are resourceful and used to tackling repairs or maintenance themselves. But when it comes to trees on power lines, DIY is not just a bad idea—it’s extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
Here’s why tree removal near power lines requires certified professionals:
- Tree limbs can shift suddenly when cut, causing unintended contact with energized lines.
- You may not realize that a line is still active—even if the power in your home is out.
- Proper clearance, rigging, and safety gear are required by national safety standards.
- Utility coordination and legal liability are involved in any line-related removal.
At 770 Arborist, our crews use insulated tools, certified rigging, and follow OSHA and ANSI Z133 safety standards. We also maintain partnerships with Georgia utility providers, ensuring smooth coordination.
How 770 Arborist Responds to Tree and Power Line Emergencies
When we receive a call for a tree on power lines, our process is fast, methodical, and aligned with the highest safety protocols.
Here’s what you can expect:
- 24/7 Dispatch: We mobilize crews within 30 minutes, no matter the time of day or night.
- On-Site Hazard Assessment: A certified arborist evaluates tree tension, weight distribution, and proximity to infrastructure.
- Utility Notification: We contact power providers and wait for confirmation that lines are de-energized.
- Safety Perimeter Setup: The work zone is secured, with signage and visual barriers to protect passersby.
- Strategic Tree Removal: Using our 24/7 crane and grapple saw trucks, we remove limbs without physical climbing or wire contact.
- Cleanup and Documentation: We leave the site clean and provide detailed documentation for insurance or utility records.
This full-service approach means homeowners don’t have to coordinate between agencies, guess what to do next, or risk their safety.
Working With Utility Companies Safely and Legally
Not every tree company is authorized or equipped to operate near utility lines. That’s why 770 Arborist maintains:
- Full liability insurance and workers’ comp
- Utility clearance protocols recognized by power providers
- A licensed insurance adjuster on staff to help navigate utility-related claims
- Experience working alongside both municipal and private electric companies
We understand the permitting process, safety inspections, and communication channels required to handle these jobs legally and efficiently.
Insurance Considerations for Trees and Utility Hazards
If a tree on your property falls onto utility lines, the insurance process may feel overwhelming. At 770 Arborist, we simplify that process from start to finish.
Here’s how insurance usually works:
- If the tree damages an insured structure or poses a hazard, removal may be covered.
- Utility-related removals may be partially or fully reimbursed depending on the policy.
- Preventive trimming or non-damaging falls may not be covered.
Our role is to provide:
- A professional arborist report detailing the cause and risk
- Photographic documentation
- A formal estimate for removal and mitigation
- Direct communication with your insurer—so you don’t pay anything upfront
We’ve successfully worked on 1,000s of insurance claims and understand what adjusters need to process approvals quickly.
Specialized Equipment for High-Risk Tree Removals
Removing a tree from power lines is not like standard removal. It demands precision, safety technology, and equipment that most tree services simply do not have.
Our tools include:
- Truck-mounted cranes for controlled lifting
- Grapple saw trucks that allow cutting from the ground
- Insulated ropes and harnesses
- Ground protection mats to stabilize operations on wet or unstable soil
Owning our equipment means we’re not waiting on third-party rentals. We can respond fast, work efficiently, and complete the job within hours—not days.
Why Homeowners Trust 770 Arborist With Power Line Emergencies
Homeowners across Georgia choose 770 Arborist because we combine professionalism with compassion. Our services are designed around safety, responsiveness, and clear communication.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- In Business Since 1997, with deep roots in the community
- Best Tree Services with expert crews trained in emergency protocols
- Free Estimates, so you know what to expect
- 24-Hour Emergency Tree Service, day or night
- Licensed and Insured, always
- Backed by a 5 Star Rating from hundreds of Atlanta-area homeowners
Whether it’s a storm-damaged maple in Roswell or a pine tangled in Buckhead utility lines, we bring the same high standard of care to every call.
Preventing Tree and Power Line Collisions in the Future
While no one can stop a storm, there are preventive steps that reduce your risk of tree-line interaction:
- Annual Tree Risk Assessments to identify hazards
- Trimming limbs near power lines (performed by certified professionals)
- Removing dead or leaning trees before they become dangerous
- Choosing proper tree placement during landscaping
770 Arborist offers tree risk consulting, pruning, and tree appraisals, helping you create a safer, healthier property that is also insurance-ready.
FAQs
What should I do first if a tree falls on power lines?
Call 911 and your electric utility provider immediately to report the hazard. Do not approach the area. Once the scene is secure, contact 770 Arborist for emergency tree removal assistance.
Is it safe to go near the fallen tree if the power is out?
No. Even if the power appears to be off, the lines may still be live. Stay at least 35 feet away and wait for utility crews and trained professionals to confirm it’s safe.
Will insurance pay for removal if the tree didn’t hit my home?
Possibly. If the fallen tree creates a hazard or blocks access to your property, your insurance may still cover removal. 770 Arborist can help interpret your policy and provide all necessary documentation for the claim.
Can you work with my insurance company?
Yes. 770 Arborist has handled thousands of insurance claims. We’ll work directly with your provider so you don’t have to manage paperwork or pay anything upfront.
Do you handle cleanup after removing the tree?
Yes. We provide complete site cleanup, remove all debris, and offer additional services like stump grinding upon request. Our goal is to leave your property clean and safe.
Final Thoughts: What to Do When a Tree Falls on Power Lines
When a tree falls on power lines, it’s more than a tree problem—it’s a public safety issue that demands immediate, expert action. From utility coordination to safe removal and insurance support, every step must be handled by professionals who understand the stakes.
At 770 Arborist, we combine lightning-fast 24-hour service with the professionalism of top arborists and the resources of a full-scale emergency response team. Homeowners throughout Atlanta and North Georgia trust us because we don’t just remove trees—we protect homes, families, and peace of mind.
If you’re facing a power line tree emergency, or want to prevent one, we’re here to help.
Call (770) 758-8590 now or request a free emergenecy service estimate.
