Pennsylvania Tree Trimming (2026)

Key Facts

Regulating Body: Pennsylvania PUC
Authority: 52 Pa. Code Ch. 57
Scope: Statewide utility easements
Property Owner Rights: Limited within easements

Full Breakdown

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), under 52 Pa. Code Chapter 57, requires electric distribution companies to maintain vegetation management programs across all service territories. Utilities have the universal right to trim trees within their easements regardless of municipal preferences. Property owners cannot block routine clearance work on lines. State law preempts local efforts to restrict utility trimming when reliability is at stake.

Violations & Penalties

Property owners blocking utility access can face civil penalties; utilities failing reliability standards face PUC fines up to $1,000 per day per violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my township stop the utility from trimming my tree?

No. PUC reliability standards under 52 Pa. Code Chapter 57 preempt municipal restrictions on utility vegetation management within established easements and rights-of-way.

Do I get notice before trimming?

Utilities typically provide advance notice for non-emergency work, but emergency trimming for hazard trees or storm response can occur without prior notification under PUC rules.

Pennsylvania Utility Vegetation Management Tree Trimming Rules

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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