Norfolk Island pines grow fast and tall, and one in a Clearwater, FL, property had reached a point where its upper canopy was tangled with electrical and cable lines. The homeowner worried that the branches could interfere with the utilities and create a hazardous situation. They didn’t want to remove the entire tree, so they called Stevens Tree Service for tree trimming and height reduction to bring it below the utility lines.

Keeping a Norfolk Island Pine Clear of Utility Lines
- Client Profile: Residential
- Location: Clearwater, Florida
- Type of Service: Tree trimming and height reduction
- Duration: Five hours
- Tree Size: 45 feet
- Service Frequency: One-time
- Season: Winter
- Tree Type: Norfolk Island pine
- Client Preferences: The Stevens Tree Service crew assisted a Clearwater homeowner with a Norfolk Island pine that had grown dangerously close to overhead electrical and cable lines. Using an aerial lift, the team safely reduced the tree’s height, bringing it below the utility lines to minimize the risk of fire or power outages. Although the homeowner chose not to remove the tree at this time, proactive trimming allowed the tree to remain while improving safety for the property and surrounding utilities. This approach helped extend the tree’s life while reducing potential hazards, highlighting the value of preventative tree maintenance when trees are located near power lines or structures.

Reducing Height Without Removing the Tree
Because of the tree’s height and its location near utility lines, the crew used an aerial lift to safely access the tree and perform the necessary trimming and height reduction over five hours. They cut the tree down below the utility line, then did some canopy shaping to ensure an even appearance and support long-term tree health.
The work improved property safety by reducing the risk of branches contacting utility lines or breaking off and crashing onto the roof or pool area.

Take a Preventative Approach to Tree Maintenance
This project demonstrates the importance of tree maintenance. Waiting until branches become an immediate problem can leave fewer options for addressing the situation. Proactive tree trimming and height reduction by professional arborists allowed the homeowner to retain the tree while addressing the hazard.
For Clearwater property owners dealing with overgrown branches near power or cable lines, Stevens Tree Service provides practical tree maintenance that improves property safety. Homeowners concerned about the trees in their yards can call (727) 734-TREE (8733) to schedule an assessment.
