Trees Near Power Lines in Lubbock: Who Trims What
Updated 2026-10 · Lubbock, TX
The rule that matters most
Lubbock Power and Light's safety guidance is clear that only professionals authorized by the utility should prune or remove trees closer than ten feet to high-voltage lines, citing Texas law, and that untrained people working that close have been seriously injured and killed. That applies to a homeowner with a pole saw, and it applies to a tree company that is not authorized for line work.
Who handles what
The main lines
The utility maintains clearance around its own distribution lines, whether along the street or down the alley, and uses its own tree contractor to do it. LP&L says that contractor tries to contact residents before trimming, and that the clearance required depends on the line's voltage and the type of tree.
The service drop to your house
The lower-voltage line from the pole to your house is a common grey area. Utilities often expect the owner to keep it clear of branches, but will temporarily disconnect or make it safe so a tree company can work. Call the utility and ask before anyone works near it.
Everything else
Limbs nowhere near a line are yours and your tree company's to deal with, as on any other part of the lot.
Alley lines in older neighbourhoods
A lot of older Lubbock housing takes its power from lines running along the back alley, and the trees along back fences have been growing up into them for decades. That is why so many pruning and removal jobs in central Lubbock involve a line, and why access from the alley matters: the utility's crews and a tree company's crews may both need to work from there.
Which utility you have
Most of Lubbock is served by Lubbock Power and Light. Parts of the edges and the surrounding towns are served by South Plains Electric Cooperative or Xcel Energy. Your bill tells you which, and that is the number to call about a tree on a line.
What to plant under a line
LP&L lists low-growing trees that reach under about 25 feet at maturity for spots near overhead lines, including redbud, yaupon holly and desert willow. Planting one of those instead of a shade tree under the alley line saves a lifetime of clearance cuts.
Tree growing into the line from your back fence? Call and describe it. A local tree company will tell you what they can do and what needs the utility first.
Where to go next
Common questions
A branch is touching the line. Is that an emergency?
If it is sparking, burning or the line is down, yes: stay away and call 911 and the utility. If it is resting on the line in calm weather, call the utility and keep everyone, including pets, away from the tree.
Will the utility cut down my tree?
Utilities generally prune for clearance rather than remove, but LP&L notes that it may remove a tree whose condition warrants it. Ask what they plan if their crew contacts you.