Can Trees Be Planted Over Utilities?

Planting trees in urban areas can help improve air quality, reduce urban heat islands, and provide many benefits to the community. However, when planting trees in these areas, it is important to consider the location of underground utilities, including power lines, gas lines, and water pipes. So, can trees be planted over utilities?

The Risk of Planting Trees Over Utilities

Planting trees over underground utilities poses a great risk to the infrastructure, and can cause significant damage that may be expensive to repair. Tree roots can grow deep and wide, and if they encounter underground utilities, they can cause them to crack, puncture, or displace. This can result in power outages, gas leaks, water damage, and other potential hazards.

How to Plant Trees Near Utilities

To avoid damaging underground utilities, it is important to know where they are located before planting trees. Property owners should contact their local utility company to locate any utilities on their property. Alternatively, they can hire a professional to provide an underground utility survey to identify the location and depth of utility lines. Once the location of the utilities is identified, trees should be planted at least 10 feet away from them to prevent root encroachment.

Trees to Plant Near Utilities

To further reduce the risk of damaging underground utilities, property owners should consider planting trees that have shallow roots and are less likely to cause damage. Some examples of trees that can be planted near utilities include dogwood trees, crepe myrtles, paperbark maples, and magnolias. These trees not only have shallow roots, but also provide a range of benefits such as beauty, shade, and habitat for local wildlife.

The Importance of Maintaining Trees Near Utilities

While planting trees near utilities may pose a risk, it is also important to maintain them properly to ensure they do not cause damage in the future. Property owners should regularly inspect trees for signs of root growth near utilities, and prune any branches that may be touching or too close to them. This can help prevent the roots from growing too close to the utilities, and reduce the risk of damage over time.

In Conclusion

Trees can be planted near utilities as long as proper precautions are taken, such as identifying the location of underground utilities and planting trees at a safe distance away. By selecting trees with shallow roots and maintaining them properly, property owners can enjoy the many benefits of urban trees while also protecting their infrastructure.