When Trees Meet Power Lines in North Texas
October 20, 2025
The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is known for its beautiful, tree-lined neighborhoods. From the majestic live oaks in Highland Village to the towering pecans in Denton, our urban forest adds character and value to DFW properties. But when severe weather strikes—whether it’s spring thunderstorms, summer derechos, or winter ice storms—these beautiful trees can become serious hazards, especially when they fall onto power lines.
A tree falling on power lines isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action and professional expertise. High-voltage electricity, fire risk, blocked access, and structural damage can all occur within seconds. This isn’t a situation for DIY solutions or hoping it resolves itself.
At Quality Tree Service DFW, we’ve responded to countless power line emergencies across Denton County and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. We understand the urgency, the safety protocols, and the coordination needed with utility companies to resolve these dangerous situations quickly and safely.
This comprehensive guide explains exactly what to do when a tree falls on power lines, why professional help is essential, and how to protect your family and property during these emergencies.
Understanding the Danger: Why Power Lines Are High-Risk
Power lines carry enough electricity to power entire neighborhoods. When a tree makes contact with these lines, the danger extends far beyond what you can see.
The Hidden Electrical Hazards
Electricity doesn’t always stay confined to the wires. It can:
- Arc through the air to nearby objects without direct contact
- Travel through wet wood making the entire tree dangerous to touch
- Energize the ground creating a danger zone up to 35 feet away
- Jump to metal objects like fences, gutters, or vehicles
- Create secondary hazards through standing water or damp soil
Even if your home’s power is out, the lines may still be energized. Power can be routed from multiple sources, and what looks like a “dead” wire could be carrying lethal current.
Fire and Property Risks
Beyond electrocution, downed power lines create:
- Immediate fire danger from sparks igniting dry leaves, mulch, or structures
- Explosive hazards if gas lines are nearby or damaged
- Structural damage as heavy limbs rest on roofs, cars, or outbuildings
- Community impact with power outages affecting dozens or hundreds of homes
According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution and lighting equipment causes over 4,000 home fires annually in the United States. When trees are involved, the risk multiplies.
What to Do Immediately When a Tree Hits Power Lines
Time is critical in power line emergencies. Your immediate response can mean the difference between a controlled situation and a tragedy.
Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety
- Stay back. Maintain a minimum distance of 35 feet from the tree, wires, or anything touching them. Electricity can arc farther than you think, especially in wet conditions.
- Keep others away. Immediately move family members, pets, and neighbors away from the danger zone. Establish a clear perimeter and make sure children and pets are secured indoors.
- Do not touch anything. This includes the tree, branches, wires, fencing, metal siding, or even puddles near the incident. Assume everything is energized until professionals confirm otherwise.
Step 2: Call for Emergency Help
Dial 911 first. Report the downed tree and power lines. Emergency dispatchers will alert the fire department and coordinate with the utility company.
Contact your electric utility:
- Oncor (214) 300-1300 for most of DFW
- Denton Municipal Electric (940) 349-8700
- Texas-New Mexico Power for some areas
Provide your exact location, describe the situation, and follow their instructions. They’ll dispatch crews to de-energize the lines.
Call Quality Tree Service DFW at (214) 407-2385. Our 24/7 emergency team will coordinate with utility crews and be ready to safely remove the tree once power is shut off.
Step 3: Document the Damage
If it’s safe to do so from a distance, take photos and videos of:
- The fallen tree and power lines
- Any property damage
- The surrounding area
- License plates or identifying information if vehicles are involved
This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and utility company reports.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your homeowner’s insurance as soon as possible. Many policies cover tree removal when it causes damage or creates a hazard. Ask about:
- Emergency tree removal coverage
- Property damage claims
- Temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable
- Time limits for filing claims
Quality Tree Service DFW works directly with insurance companies and can provide the documentation they need to process your claim quickly.
Why You Should NEVER Attempt DIY Tree Removal Near Power Lines
Every year, people are killed or seriously injured trying to remove trees from power lines themselves. This is not a job for even experienced DIYers or general contractors.
The Fatal Mistakes People Make
- Assuming the power is off: Just because your lights are out doesn’t mean the lines are dead. Power can be routed from multiple sources, and what appears safe can still be carrying thousands of volts.
- Using metal ladders or tools: Metal conducts electricity. Using metal equipment near power lines is asking for electrocution.
- Cutting without understanding tree tension: Trees under tension can snap violently when cut, causing unintended contact with live wires or throwing the cutter into danger.
- Not maintaining proper clearance: OSHA requires a minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines for most work. This isn’t just a guideline—it’s a life-saving regulation.
Legal and Insurance Consequences
Beyond the physical danger:
- DIY electrical work near power lines may violate local codes
- Your insurance may deny claims if you attempt unauthorized removal
- You could be liable for injuries to others
- Damaging utility infrastructure can result in fines and repair costs
How Quality Tree Service DFW Handles Power Line Emergencies
When you call our 24/7 emergency line, we immediately spring into action with a proven process designed for safety and efficiency.
Our Emergency Response Process
1. Immediate Dispatch (Within 30 Minutes) Our crew mobilizes day or night. We understand that power line emergencies can’t wait until Monday morning or regular business hours.
2. On-Site Safety Assessment A certified arborist evaluates:
- Tree size, species, and condition
- Point of contact with power lines
- Tension and weight distribution
- Structural risks to nearby buildings
- Ground conditions and access points
3. Utility Company Coordination We communicate directly with Oncor, Denton Municipal Electric, or your local provider to:
- Confirm power line status
- Coordinate de-energization schedules
- Establish clear work zones
- Comply with utility safety requirements
4. Safety Perimeter Establishment Before any work begins, we:
- Mark a clear danger zone
- Set up barriers and signage
- Ensure all bystanders are at safe distances
- Brief our crew on specific hazards
5. Professional Tree Removal Using specialized equipment including:
- Insulated tools and ropes
- Crane service for heavy lifting
- Grapple saw trucks for ground-level cutting
- Rigging systems to control descent
We remove trees without climbing when power lines are involved, minimizing risk to our crew and your property.
6. Complete Cleanup and Documentation We don’t just remove the tree and leave. Our service includes:
- Hauling away all debris
- Grinding stumps if requested
- Repairing damaged turf
- Providing detailed photos and reports for insurance
Why Our Team Is Qualified
- Fully Licensed and Insured: Liability coverage and workers’ compensation protect you from any risk
- OSHA Trained: Our crews follow strict electrical safety protocols
- Years of Experience: We’ve handled hundreds of power line emergencies across DFW
- Specialized Equipment: We own the tools needed—no waiting for rentals
- Utility Relationships: Established contacts with all major DFW power providers
Working With Utility Companies in the DFW Area
Understanding who’s responsible for what can prevent confusion and delays during an emergency.
Utility Company Responsibilities
Your electric utility company will:
- Respond to emergency calls about downed lines
- De-energize lines in the affected area
- Assess and repair damage to their equipment
- Restore power once it’s safe
However, they are NOT responsible for:
- Removing trees from your property
- Repairing damage to your home or structures
- Cleaning up branches or debris
- Grinding stumps
Homeowner Responsibilities
You’re responsible for:
- Calling emergency services immediately
- Keeping people away from the danger
- Hiring a licensed tree service for removal
- Filing insurance claims for damages
- Repairing any property damage
The Coordination Process
Quality Tree Service DFW acts as the bridge between you and the utility company:
- We contact the utility to confirm line status
- We wait for official clearance before starting work
- We coordinate timing to minimize your power outage
- We provide documentation for both you and the utility
- We ensure all safety regulations are followed
This coordination is critical. Without it, work could be delayed for days, leaving your property at risk and your family without power.
Insurance Considerations for Tree and Power Line Damage
Dealing with insurance after a tree emergency can be overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s Typically Covered
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover tree removal when:
- The tree damages an insured structure (house, garage, fence)
- The tree blocks your driveway preventing access
- The tree creates an immediate safety hazard
Coverage usually includes:
- Emergency tree removal (up to policy limits, often $500-$1,500)
- Repair of damaged structures
- Temporary housing if needed
- Property damage from the fallen tree
What’s Usually NOT Covered
Insurance typically won’t pay for:
- Preventive tree removal (cutting down healthy trees)
- Trees that fall but don’t damage anything
- Gradual damage from tree roots or branches
- Lack of maintenance or negligence
Preventing Future Tree and Power Line Incidents
While you can’t control the weather, you can reduce your risk of trees falling on power lines.
Regular Tree Risk Assessments
Annual inspections by a certified arborist can identify:
- Trees with structural defects
- Dead or dying limbs over power lines
- Root problems affecting stability
- Disease or pest infestations
- Improper previous pruning
Proactive Tree Trimming
Keep branches at least 10 feet away from power lines. In DFW, we recommend:
- Professional trimming every 2-3 years for mature trees
- Annual inspections after severe weather
- Immediate attention to any concerning changes
Important: Never trim near power lines yourself. This requires certified professionals with utility clearance and specialized training.
Strategic Tree Selection and Placement
When planting new trees:
- Choose species appropriate for DFW soil and climate
- Consider mature size and growth patterns
- Plant away from overhead lines (at least 20 feet)
- Avoid fast-growing, weak-wooded species near utilities
- Consult with an arborist before planting
Post-Storm Inspections
After any major storm in the DFW area:
- Walk your property looking for hanging branches
- Check for cracks in tree trunks or major limbs
- Look for trees leaning more than usual
- Note any sudden exposure of roots
- Call for professional assessment if anything looks wrong
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if a tree falls on power lines?
Call 911 immediately, then contact your electric utility company. Keep everyone at least 35 feet away from the tree and any wires. Once emergency services are notified, call Quality Tree Service DFW at (214) 407-2385 for 24/7 emergency response.
Can I touch the tree if the power appears to be out?
Absolutely not. Even if your power is out, the lines may still be energized from another source. Only utility workers and certified professionals with proper equipment should approach downed power lines.
Will my insurance cover the removal?
Most likely yes, if the tree damaged your property or created a safety hazard. However, coverage varies by policy. Quality Tree Service DFW can help document the damage and work directly with your insurance company to maximize your claim.
How long does it take to remove a tree from power lines?
After the utility company de-energizes the lines (which can take 2-4 hours), removal typically takes 2-6 hours depending on tree size and access. Our emergency crews work quickly while maintaining strict safety protocols.
What if the tree is on my property but the power lines belong to the utility?
You’re still responsible for removing the tree from your property. The utility company will handle their equipment, but tree removal and property cleanup are the homeowner’s responsibility.
Can I cut branches that are near but not touching power lines?
No. Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from power lines at all times. Only certified professionals should work near utility lines.
What does emergency tree removal cost?
Costs vary based on tree size, location, and complexity. Emergency services typically cost more than scheduled work due to 24/7 availability and urgent response. We provide free estimates and work with insurance companies to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
How can I prevent trees from falling on power lines?
Regular tree maintenance, professional risk assessments, proper pruning, and removing dead or dying trees before they become hazards. Quality Tree Service DFW offers preventive care programs to protect your property.
Conclusion: Safety First, Every Time
When a tree falls on power lines in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, it’s not just a tree problem—it’s a public safety emergency requiring immediate professional response. From the initial 911 call to final cleanup, every step must prioritize safety over speed or cost.
Quality Tree Service DFW combines rapid emergency response with the expertise of certified arborists and the resources of a full-service tree care company. We don’t just remove trees—we protect homes, families, and communities throughout Denton County and the greater DFW Metroplex.
Whether you’re facing an emergency right now or want to prevent future incidents through regular tree maintenance, we’re here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Don’t wait for a tree emergency. Call Quality Tree Service DFW today:
- 24/7 Emergency Line: (214) 407-2385
- Free Estimates: Request Online
- Service Areas: Denton, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Dallas, and throughout the DFW Metroplex
Your safety is our priority. When seconds count, Quality Tree Service DFW delivers.
About Quality Tree Service DFW: We’re a locally based tree service company proudly serving the entire Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Our experienced, licensed, and insured team provides tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and 24/7 emergency services. With years of experience and a commitment to safety, we’re the trusted choice for homeowners throughout North Texas.
Related Services:
Service Area: Quality Tree Service DFW serves Denton, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Corinth, Lake Dallas, Shady Shores, McKinney, Frisco, Plano, The Colony, Grapevine, Southlake, Colleyville, Coppell, Dallas, and surrounding communities in the DFW Metroplex.
Need Help With Tree Trimming in DFW?
Don’t ignore the warning signs your trees are giving you. Overgrown, damaged, or unbalanced trees aren’t just cosmetic issues; they can lead to real safety hazards, from falling limbs to blocked sightlines and property damage. Regular trimming and pruning are key to preventing emergencies, improving tree health, and protecting your home investment.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s smart to act now rather than wait for the next storm or code violation. Early intervention saves money and reduces risk.
Reach out to Quality Tree Service DFW to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation. Our team of experienced professionals serves homeowners throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding communities. We’re here to make tree care simple, transparent, and tailored to your property’s specific needs.
Want to understand what goes into the pricing?
Read our detailed blog on Tree Trimming Costs in DFW to learn what factors affect the price, how to plan your budget, and why professional trimming is worth the investment.
