What to Do before Planting Trees Easements

Planting trees in easements is a great way to improve the landscape and environment. However, before you start planting, there are certain things that you need to consider. In this article, we will discuss what to do before planting trees easements.

Check Easement Regulations

The first thing you need to do is check the easement regulations. Easements are areas that are designated for utility purposes, such as water lines, gas lines, and power lines. There are restrictions on what can be planted in these areas, so it's important to review the regulations before planting trees. You can contact your county or city government or utility company to obtain these regulations.

Identify the Easement Area

The second step is to identify the easement area. It's important to know where the easement is located on your property to avoid planting trees in prohibited areas. You can review your property documents or ask your utility company for a map of the easement area.

Choose the Right Tree Species

Once you have identified the easement area and reviewed the regulations, the next step is to choose the right tree species. Not all trees are suitable for planting in easements. You need to choose trees that have shallow roots and are slow-growing. Some examples of suitable trees are dogwoods, serviceberries, and redbuds. These trees have a maximum height of 25 feet and a spread of 20 feet, making them ideal for planting in easements.

Plan for Maintenance

Planting trees in easements requires maintenance to ensure they grow properly and don't interfere with utility lines. You will need to plan for regular pruning and trimming to keep the trees at a safe distance from the lines. It's recommended that you hire a professional tree care company to handle the maintenance for you. They have the knowledge and equipment to maintain your trees properly.

Notify Your Utility Company

Before you start planting trees in easements, it's important to notify your utility company. They need to be aware of any work done in the easement area to avoid any damage to their utility lines. You can contact them to schedule an inspection of the area and discuss any concerns they may have.

Conclusion

Planting trees in easements can be beneficial for the environment and improve the aesthetic of your property. However, it's important to follow the regulations, choose the right tree species, plan for maintenance, and notify your utility company. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your trees grow properly and don't pose a threat to utility lines.