Trees make Detroit beautiful. They shade our homes, boost curb appeal and turn neighborhoods green and welcoming. Here’s the hard truth, though. Trees that grow too close to power lines cause about half of all power outages our customers experience.
We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between reliable power and beautiful trees. With a little planning, you can have both.
Plant smart for power reliability
The key is simple: plant the right tree in the right place. When planting near overhead power lines, choose low-growing, power line-friendly trees like dwarf arbor vitae, star magnolia and some varieties of dogwood. These trees won’t grow tall enough to interfere with the lines — and they still add color, shade and beauty to your yard.
Our Right Tree, Right Place video and our list of Trees Suitable for Planting in Southeast Michigan make it easy to choose trees that work well with your space and help protect reliability long-term.
Don’t forget what’s underground
Overhead power lines aren’t the only equipment to watch out for. Underground utility lines may also be on your property, and giving them the proper space helps keep everyone safe — and can prevent extended outages for you and your neighbors.
But if you’re digging to plant new trees, always remember this important step: Call MISS DIG at 8-1-1 or visit missdig811.org at least three business days before you dig.
Here’s what happens after you call:
• Utility companies will mark underground lines with flags or paint.
• You can check the status online to confirm everything is marked.
• Once all markings are complete and it’s your start date, you’re good to go.
• Always dig carefully and stay in the Safe Zone — more than four feet away from marked lines unless they’ve been hand-exposed.
It’s simple, free and required by law — and it keeps everyone safe.
Small choices, big impact
Planting the right tree in the right place is one of the easiest ways to help prevent outages months and years down the road. Our goal is fewer trees near overhead wires, more beautiful yards and reliable power you can count on.
To learn more about trees and power reliability, visit dteenergy.com/treetrim
