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How do I know if there is enough space to plant a tree?

Community ordinances may restrict planting of trees near power lines, parking strips, street lights, sewers, traffic control signs and signals, sidewalks and property lines. Municipalities may require planting permits for trees planted on city property. City codes often require that trees on city property be maintained by the city, so citizens planting an improper selection can cause problems for themselves and the municipality. We generally don’t recommend that you plant trees that grow to 8 m (25 ft) or higher under any existing power lines. Ground-level utility structures, such as transformers and individual service connections, will also need repair space. Also keep in mind that root structures can affect underground utilities. A 3 m (10 ft) clearance area after complete growth of the tree’s branches and root systems would limit future maintenance issues.