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Trees near power lines: the 10 foot rule
Utah Code 54-8c-2 says no person or thing may be brought within 10 feet of any high voltage overhead line unless the utility operating the line has been notified of the work and the utility and the responsible party have completed mutually satisfactory precautions. High voltage means more than 600 volts. (source: Utah State Legislature)
If you do not know who owns the line, the statute says the county clerk will provide the utility's name and contact information. (source: Utah State Legislature)
Stumps: grinding is digging. Utah Code 54-8a-4 requires an excavator to notify underground facility operators (through Blue Stakes, 811) at least 48 hours and no more than 14 days before excavating. Gardening and tilling private ground are exempt. (source: Utah State Legislature) (source: Blue Stakes of Utah 811)
In this guide: Tree trimming licenses and city permits · Trees near power lines: the 10 foot rule · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Utah State Legislature: Utah Code Title 54, Chapter 8c, Electrical Power Line Safety (54-8c-1 Definitions, 54-8c-2 Notification to public utility) (checked October 30, 2026)
- Utah State Legislature: Utah Code Title 54, Chapter 8a, Damage to Underground Utility Facilities (54-8a-4 Notice of excavation) (checked October 30, 2026)
- Blue Stakes of Utah 811 (utility notification association under Utah Code 54-8a-9): Blue Stakes of Utah 811 (checked October 30, 2026)
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