How Close Can I Plant a Tree to Gas Line

Planting trees near gas lines is a common practice, but it comes with potential hazards. Gas companies require a certain distance between a tree and their gas line. This distance is crucial to ensure the safety of the tree, gas line, and those around it. In this article, we will go over how close you can plant a tree to a gas line and why it is essential to follow these guidelines.

Why is it Important to Plant Trees Away from Gas Lines?

Gas lines are sensitive structures, and they require a specific distance from any object which might impact them in any way. Trees can significantly affect underground gas lines by damaging them with their roots. This damage can cause a leak or even break the gas line, posing a severe threat to anyone nearby. It can also affect the gas delivery system, causing a shortage of supply, increased repair costs, and, in rare cases, an explosion.

How Close Can You Plant a Tree to a Gas Line?

When it comes to planting trees near gas lines, the general rule is to maintain a distance of at least ten feet between the tree and the gas line. This distance provides enough space for the roots to grow without damaging the gas line. However, some trees have more aggressive root systems, which may require more distance. Check with the gas company or a certified arborist before you plant any trees near gas lines to ensure that the exact distance requirements are met.

What Happens if You Plant a Tree Too Close to a Gas Line?

If you plant a tree too close to a gas line, you may be at risk of damaging the line, which has many consequences. The tree roots can penetrate the gas line, causing a leak, rupture, or expulsion of gas, which is extremely dangerous. If you notice a gas leak or smell gas, you need to evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company. Do not turn on or off any electrical devices or anything that creates sparks, since even a tiny spark can quickly ignite gas fumes, causing an explosion.

What Should You Do Before Planting Trees Near Gas Lines?

Planting trees near gas lines requires caution, and it's essential to ensure that you are doing it safely. Before planting any tree near a gas line, contact your local gas company to determine the pipeline location and the distance required between the gas line and a tree. You can also contact a certified arborist who can advise you on the type of tree that is compatible with the area and distance requirements.

Another critical factor to consider is what will happen if a tree planted near a gas line grows too large for the available space. It can lead to having to remove the tree, which may incur maintenance costs and potentially create a dangerous situation. Therefore, take into account the tree's growth potential and the proximity to the gas line.

Conclusion

Planting trees near gas lines is a practice that can improve the surrounding environment's aesthetics, but it also poses a potential threat. To prevent any accidents or damage, it's critical to maintain the appropriate distance between the tree and the gas line. Always follow the recommended guidelines and consult the gas company or a certified arborist before planting any trees near an underground or above-ground gas line. By following these steps, you can be sure that you are planting your trees safely and reducing the chance of an accident.