Electric Power Line Inspection

PEPCO planners have nearly completed work in various neighborhoods inspecting only overhead power lines for vegetative growth that is encroaching the space near the lines. Maryland Public Service Commission requires specific clearance distance around the power lines based on their voltage. The line clearance requirements were instituted as a mechanism to maintain reliability standards to consumers. The line inspection occurs cyclically on a 4-5 year schedule to maintain the required clearance distance surrounding the power lines.

Due to Covid-19 conditions, the City review process of the planned work has been altered from the previous ride-along process; only requested or planned tree removals are being reviewed and discussed via an emailed list from the planner and then inspected by City staff. Specific tree pruning locations have not been identified to City staff, however they will be identified on the planned work maps submitted to the City. The PEPCO planners have sent detailed maps to the City, which include all planned line clearance work, (brush cutting, pruning and removals). The line clearance maps are posted on the City website in the News section under tree line clearance work: https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=157.

Areas that have been planned are College Park Estates, Yarrow, North College Park, Calvert Hills, Old Town, Lakeland, and Berwyn neighborhoods. City staff has reviewed the lists of requested tree removals in all of the identified neighborhoods. Planned work in the Calvert Hills, Old Town and Lakeland neighborhoods is in the que to be scheduled by Asplundh, the tree contractor for PEPCO.

Residents are encouraged to respond to the PEPCO planners that have left door hangers related to planned private tree work for power line clearance. Questions about planned power line clearance work can be directed to horticulturist@collegeparkmd.gov.