Planting Trees Safely: 811 and Power Line Clearances

Planting a new shade tree can transform your yard, but a rushed hole in the wrong spot can lead to safety hazards, fines, or costly removals. In McCormick Ranch, you also navigate City right‑of‑way rules, HOA guidelines, and mixed utility service areas. This guide shows you exactly when to call 811, how far to plant from power lines and green boxes, and who to contact before you dig. Let’s dive in.

Why 811 matters in McCormick Ranch

Arizona law requires you to notify 811 before any digging that disturbs soil, including planting trees. Arizona 811 alerts utilities so they can mark underground lines at no cost to you. It coordinates the process, but it does not do the locating itself.

Call or submit an e‑ticket at least two full working days before you dig, then wait for all utilities to mark or clear your site. You will see colored flags or paint noting buried lines. Marks are approximate, so use safe digging near them. Learn the basics from the Arizona 811 guidance on preparing to dig.

How to place an 811 ticket

• Call 811 or 1‑800‑782‑5348 at least two business days before digging. Wait for all responses before you start. Arizona 811’s step‑by‑step guidance explains timing and marks.
• Outline your planned hole in white paint so locators can find the spot.
• Treat marks as approximate. Hand dig near marks as directed in the 811 instructions.
• Remember: 811 marks utility‑owned lines to the meter. Private lines you own (irrigation past the meter, yard lighting) are not marked. Consider a private locator if needed.

Safe distances near power lines

McCormick Ranch homes can be served by APS or SRP, and rules vary by utility. First, confirm who serves your address by checking your bill. Both utilities publish vegetation guidance for safety and reliability.

Overhead lines

• Under local distribution lines, keep plants low. APS advises shrubs and trees under overhead lines should not grow taller than about 15 feet. See APS vegetation guidance for details. APS vegetation management
• SRP notes trees within about 10 feet of a line are often an electrical safety hazard and asks customers to call for an assessment. SRP’s safety tips explain how they handle pruning and removal.
• A conservative rule of thumb from broader utility practice: plant a tree at a horizontal distance at least equal to its mature height from the nearest overhead conductor. See general yard‑safety guidance used by major utilities. Utility yard‑safety overview

Pad transformers and meters

Leave clear access to green boxes, transformer doors, pedestals, and panels. Utilities commonly require about 10 feet of clearance where technicians open a transformer door and several feet on the sides. If you are unsure, call your utility before planting. APS box‑clearance guidance

Underground utility basics

Always call 811 before digging. Utility locators mark utility‑owned lines to the meter or service point. Private lines you own, such as irrigation beyond the meter, may not be marked. Plan your hole and root zone to avoid future conflicts and potential excavation for repairs. Arizona 811 instructions

City rules and HOA approvals

In Scottsdale, adjacent property owners must maintain vegetation that encroaches on public rights‑of‑way. The City enforces vertical clearance over sidewalks and streets and maintains sight‑distance rules at corners. Check the City’s Code Enforcement pages for the current requirements that apply to your street. City of Scottsdale code guidance

McCormick Ranch neighborhoods often have HOA rules that govern front‑yard plantings, easements, and common areas. Review your CC&Rs and contact your association or property manager before you plant in areas the HOA may control. Example HOA guidance

Right tree, right place

Choose species by mature height and form, not by nursery size. Under lines, select small trees that stay well under the lowest conductor. For medium and tall trees, site them far enough from overhead lines and away from pad equipment so they never need severe pruning.

If you are an SRP customer, look into programs that help you pick the right species and placement. SRP’s Right Tree Right Place and Shade Tree workshops offer guidance and eligible free shade trees for participants. Review species ideas and program details through SRP resources and coverage. SRP Right Tree Right Place | SRP Shade Tree program overview

Quick checklist before planting

• Confirm your utility: APS or SRP. Policies and contacts differ. APS vegetation management
• Call 811 at least two business days before digging. Keep your ticket number and wait for marks. How 811 works
• Walk your site for overhead lines, green boxes, meters, and panels. Do not plant close to them.
• Pick species by mature height. Under lines, stay under about 15 feet per APS guidance.
• Use low‑water, desert‑adapted species and place them where they will not require aggressive trimming.
• Keep clear zones: about 10 feet in front of transformer doors and several feet on sides unless your utility specifies otherwise.
• Hand dig near marked lines as required. Never use power tools right over marks.

When to call your utility

Do not trim near energized lines. Utilities handle safety pruning and removal around their lines. If branches are within their hazard zone, call your provider for an assessment. For work near the service drop to your home, SRP can schedule a temporary disconnect so a contractor can work safely. SRP tree‑trimming guidance

Ready to plan your yard so it is safe, beautiful, and resale‑smart for McCormick Ranch? If you are weighing improvements before selling or want a quick read on how planting choices can affect value, reach out to Celina Acosta for local guidance and a clear plan.

FAQs

Do I need to call 811 for one tree?

• Yes. Any digging that disturbs soil can affect buried utilities. Call at least two business days before you dig and wait for marks. Learn the steps

How far from power lines should I plant a tree?

• Keep small trees under lines to about 15 feet mature height per APS, and plant larger trees at a horizontal distance at least equal to their mature height from overhead lines. See APS guidance

Who trims trees that touch power lines in Scottsdale?

• Your utility handles safety pruning or removal around their lines. Do not trim near energized lines yourself. SRP’s safety guidance

Can my HOA or the City limit front‑yard planting?

• Yes. Scottsdale enforces right‑of‑way clearances and sight‑distance rules, and HOAs often regulate front‑yard and easement plantings. Check both before you plant. City code overview

How close can I plant to a green transformer box?

• Leave clear access. Utilities often require about 10 feet in front of transformer doors and several feet on the sides. When in doubt, confirm with your utility. APS clearance info