Up and Running at Koloa Substation - Kauai Island Utility Cooperative

Vegetation Management
State law requires KIUC to maintain all lines, keeping
them safe and hazard free. If KIUC’s inspection staff or
contractor determines some trimming must be done
within an easement on private property, no prior
notification is required. Utility easements and rights of
way often are conveyed in the deed to a property.
16 KAUA‘I ISLAND UTILITY COOPERATIVE
As a condition of electric service to your home, you also
must provide the utility with reasonable access to your
property for maintenance at all times.
KIUC does not trim service drops on private property, so
this responsibility remains with the property owner. A
qualified trimmer should be contacted for such work.
Always take extreme caution when working near
overhead power lines, as any electrical contact could result
in serious injury.
KIUC highly recommends that all members survey areas
carefully prior to planting trees to be sure they will not
cause problems as they mature and grow high enough to
reach overhead power lines.
How much to trim is prescribed by a utility forester based
on tree growth rate and structure, limb configurations,
wind sway and line sag. The species, environmental
factors, irrigation and proximity of the tree to the line are
considered. A margin of safety is added above minimum
clearance requirements.
After these determinations are made, KIUC implements a
planned and consistent trimming cycle to ensure dollars are
well spent and power lines stay clear. Faster growing areas
require greater clearances at the time of trim to reduce
stress to the tree and costs associated with the trimming.
Tree Planting – Call Before You Dig
Trees growing too close to electric lines are the primary
cause of momentary short circuits and flickering lights. In
the case of a storm, the limbs on those trees are likely to
knock power lines out completely and create a threat to
your safety.
Tall-growing trees near overhead lines can cause service
interruptions when trees contact wires. Children or adults
climbing in these trees can be severely injured or even
killed if they come in contact with the wires. Proper
selection and placement of trees in and around overhead
utilities can eliminate potential public safety hazards,
reduce expenses for utilities and their members, and
improve the appearance of landscapes.
Before you plant, make sure you are aware of the location
of any underground utilities. To be certain you do not
accidentally dig into any lines and risk serious injury or a
costly service interruption, call Hawai‘i One Call Center
toll free at 866.423.7287 at least five days before you dig.
Never assume these utility lines are buried deeper than
you plan to dig. In some cases, utility lines are very close
to the surface.
Safer is Smarter
To protect your family, your property and your power
service, homeowners should keep trees trimmed away
from power lines. If you have questions, contact KIUC
at 246.4300.