Landscaping is a great way to increase the value of your property and save energy, but trees and shrubs planted too close to power lines and other electrical equipment can create both safety and reliability concerns. You can help maintain power line access and clearance by planning ahead before planting trees and shrubs. These guidelines help ensure a safe and reliable service for all Dakota Electric members. 

Always call 811 or 1-800-252-1166 before you dig. State and federal laws require marking all underground utilities before excavation. Facility marks are valid for 14 calendar days. You can also visit www.gopherstateonecall.org to schedule online. 

Mature trees, shrubs and plants need to maintain 10 feet of clearance in front of doors and four feet on all other sides of the box. Please do not landscape or install fences near the cooperative’s pad-mounted transformers, junction boxes or at the base of power poles. Our crews need plenty of space to access this equipment. Thank you for your cooperation!