Storm Ready: Tree trimming around power & telecommunication lines

Published on June 17, 2025

ENSURE CONNECTIVITY: TRIM TREES NEAR TELECOMMUNICATION LINES BEFORE STORMS
If you have trees or large branches encroaching on telecommunication lines—such as internet, cable, or phone—take proactive steps to protect your home’s connectivity. Overgrown vegetation can easily bring down these lines during high winds, causing prolonged outages and leaving you disconnected when you need information and communication most.

Hiring a licensed arborist to trim back trees and branches near telecommunication lines will:
- Reduce the risk of losing vital internet, cable, and phone services during storms
- Make your home more resilient and self-sufficient, minimizing your reliance on utility crews for emergency repairs
- Speed up restoration efforts if damage does occur since clear access allows for faster, safer repairs

TREE TRIMMING AROUND POWERLINES: HURRICANE & STORM PREPARATION
Proper tree trimming before a storm is crucial for safety, property protection, and electric service. Here’s how to prepare your property by working with Florida Power & Light (FPL) or hiring a licensed arborist:

FPL’s Program:
- FPL maintains a year-round, planned trimming cycle for trees and vegetation in the direct path of powerlines. If a tree near powerlines requires urgent attention, contact FPL at 1.800.4OUTAGE (1.800.468.8243).
- FPL also offers an online vegetation request option. Visit the Vegetation Request tab to request service.
- FPL planned tree trimming map(PDF, 3MB) . 

Best Practices for Pre-Storm Tree Trimming
- Complete all tree trimming well before a storm approaches. Do not wait until a storm warning is issued. Waste collection may be suspended, and debris can become dangerous in a storm.
- Only certified arborists or utility-qualified contractors should trim trees near powerlines. Never attempt to trim trees or vegetation near powerlines yourself this is extremely dangerous and should only be handled by professionals.
- Ensure the arborist is licensed, insured, and familiar with Miami-Dade and ANSI A300 standards.
- Arrange for bulk waste pickup well in advance of a storm. Branches and stumps left outside can become projectiles during hurricanes.

By following these steps, you help safeguard your home, and neighborhood during hurricane season. To learn more about being hurricane and storm-ready visit www.pinecrest-fl.gov/hurricane.

FPL Trees and Power Line Resources

Line Clearing Program
Learn about line clearing and how you can minimize the impact of trees on the electrical system. 

Trees and Power Line Safety
Before any major event or before you get the trimmer out, read these important safety guidelines.

Right Tree, Right Place
Prevent your trees from becoming a problem in the future by planting the right tree in the right place.

Vegetation Request
Let us know if you have a tree or vine condition to report.

Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to your questions about our line clearing program and tree maintenance.

Storm Debris Policy
Learn how we prioritize clearing debris to restore power quickly during storms.