Introduction

Planting trees in the backyard is a great way to add beauty and value to your property. However, before you start planting trees, it is essential to consider the location of underground utilities such as gas, water, and electrical lines. Planting trees too close to these utilities can lead to severe damage, leaks, and other hazardous situations. In this article, we will discuss how close you can plant a tree to underground utilities.

Understanding the Risks

Planting trees near underground utilities is risky as the roots can cause significant damage to the pipelines. The damage can lead to severe consequences such as gas leaks, water leaks, and electrical shorts. These situations can lead to dangerous outcomes, including explosions, fires, property damages, and even loss of life. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with planting trees close to underground utilities.

The Safe Distance

The distance at which you can safely plant a tree from underground utilities depends mainly on the size of the tree and the utility in question. Different types of trees have different root systems, depending on several factors such as the age of the tree, soil type, and growing conditions.

As a general guideline, you should keep trees at least ten feet away from any underground utilities such as gas, water, or electrical lines. If you are planting a small tree, then you may consider planting it within five feet of the utility line. However, it is always recommended to consult an arborist or a utility company expert to identify the safe planting distance for your specific needs.

Preventing Damage

Even if you have carefully selected the location for your tree, it is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent damage to the underground utilities. Some of the common measures include:

Call 811-Utilities will send someone to mark the location of the underground utilities before you start the digging process.

Use hand tools instead of machines if you are digging close to underground utilities to avoid damage to the pipelines.

Plant slow-growing trees such as dogwood, Japanese maple, or dwarf conifers. These trees are less likely to damage the underground utilities.

Install a root barrier system around the trees to prevent the roots from growing into the utility lines.

Conclusion

Planting trees too close to underground utilities can lead to hazardous situations, including gas leaks, water leaks, or electrical shorts. It is crucial to understand the risks and take necessary precautions to prevent damage to the pipelines. As a general guideline, you should keep trees at least ten feet from any underground utilities. Consult an arborist or a utility company expert to identify the safe planting distance for your specific needs, and follow the necessary precautions to prevent damage to the underground utilities.