Working together to keep trees clear of power lines
Sep 25, 2026, 20:48 PMAt FortisAlberta, we value our province’s diverse mix of native trees, plants and shrubs. While this vegetation is an important part of our natural environment, it can pose challenges to safe and reliable electricity service if not managed properly.
Strong winds, heavy snow and ice storms can cause branches or entire trees to fall onto power lines. Even during calm weather, vegetation growing too close can pose a risk. That’s why a key part of FortisAlberta’s comprehensive wildfire mitigation strategy is vegetation management.
More than just tree trimming
Our Forestry team inspects, trims and removes vegetation that could come into contact with power lines.
Their approach includes:
Pruning and trimming trees growing near power lines.
Removing hazardous or incompatible vegetation.
Mowing and mulching vegetation along rights-of-way.
Managing regrowth to maintain safe clearances over the long term.
Applying targeted herbicides to manage regrowth, maintain required line clearances and promote low-growing vegetation communities.
“Vegetation management is about finding the right balance”, says Steve Kerr, Forestry Manager.
“We are not trying to remove all vegetation from around power lines. Our goal is to reduce the risks posed by incompatible vegetation while promoting healthy compatible plant communities that support both system reliability and environmental sustainability.”
A shared responsibility
While FortisAlberta is responsible for maintaining clearances around distribution power lines, customers also play an important role. Property owners are responsible for managing vegetation around the service line that runs from the utility pole to their home or business.
Customers can also help reduce future issues by planting the right trees in the right place. Choosing smaller, power line-friendly species and maintaining adequate setbacks can help reduce the need for future pruning while supporting a safer electrical system. More information on compatible vegetation is available on our Planting Guide page.
We’re here to help
When it comes to vegetation management, it’s important that the work is done safely and correctly. FortisAlberta is always available to provide clear guidelines on vegetation management strategies, customer responsibilities, planting tips or any other questions you may have.
If you have questions about trees, plants, bushes or shrubs near power lines, you can contact us at 310‑WIRE (9473). We’re happy to help.
