Call 811 before planting trees
Kentucky 811 requires waiting at least two full working days after a locate request before digging. This is the law and protects you from hitting gas, electric, or communication lines.
QUICK ANSWER
What to know first
Always call 811 before planting trees near utilities. Kentucky 811 requires waiting at least two full working days after a locate request before digging to ensure all underground utility lines are marked.
Kentucky 811 should be contacted before digging for landscaping projects.
Private lines may need separate locating.
Overhead lines, transformers, easements, and equipment access matter too.
GUIDE
What affects the project
Trees near overhead power lines
If planting near overhead lines, choose small ornamental trees that mature under 20 feet tall to prevent future utility line tree clearing and aggressive pruning.
Private utilities
Remember that 811 does not mark private lines. You are responsible for locating irrigation lines, invisible dog fences, private septic lines, and landscape lighting wires.
DECISION SUPPORT
How to use this guide before planting
Define the goal first
Shade, privacy, curb appeal, screening, habitat, and property value can point to different trees. The right choice depends on the problem the planting needs to solve.
Check the site before choosing
Soil, drainage, sun, deer pressure, utilities, access, mature size, and watering capacity should be reviewed before the final species or quantity is selected.
Plan for establishment
New trees and shrubs need a realistic first-season care plan. Watering, mulch, inspection, and replacement expectations should be clear before planting day.
COMPARE
Planning tables
Utility issues to review
| Utility issue | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Underground electric, gas, water, sewer, fiber, internet, and cable | Marked lines can change planting locations and row spacing. |
| Irrigation and drainage lines | Private systems may not be marked by 811 member utilities. |
| Overhead power lines | Tree mature height must stay compatible with utility clearance. |
| Pad-mounted transformers | Access clearance must remain open for service. |
| Utility easements | Future maintenance access can limit where trees belong. |
ESTIMATE PREP
Utility mistakes to avoid
- Planting directly above marked lines.
- Blocking transformer access.
- Planting trees that will grow into overhead lines.
- Assuming old properties have accurate utility knowledge.
- Scheduling planting before utility marks are complete.
NEXT STEP
For larger planting projects, we help think through utilities.
We review utilities, access, spacing, and installation logistics before trees go in the ground.
NEXT PAGES
Related planting pages
How Far Should Trees Be Planted From a House, Fence, Driveway, or Utility Line?
Continue with the page that best matches the planting decision, site constraint, or service type you are comparing.
Tree Planting Near Property LinesContinue with the page that best matches the planting decision, site constraint, or service type you are comparing.
Driveway Tree Planting GuideContinue with the page that best matches the planting decision, site constraint, or service type you are comparing.
HOA Privacy Screening GuideReview privacy-screen options, evergreen layout choices, and site constraints before planning a row.
RELATED SERVICES
Planting services to compare
Tree Planting & Installation
Standard shade, ornamental, and property tree installation.
Large Specimen TreesBalled-and-burlapped trees, delivery, access, and equipment logistics.
Evergreen & Privacy TreesArborvitae rows, mixed evergreen screens, and property line privacy.
Shrub & Landscape PlantingFoundation shrubs, garden beds, ornamentals, and curb appeal planting.
Estate & Farm PlantingLarge-property planting for farms, estates, entrances, and acreage.
Commercial & HOA PlantingBusinesses, developments, community entrances, common areas, and buffers.
Nursery Trees & ShrubsPlant material sourcing and selection for installed planting projects.
FAQ
Common Questions
Does 811 mark every line on my property?
No. Kentucky 811 can involve member utilities, but private lines such as irrigation, drainage, lighting, or private utility runs may need separate locating.
How far from a pad-mounted transformer should plants be?
Use the local utility's current clearance guidance. LG&E/KU guidance is part of the source notes for this page and should be checked before final layout.
NEXT STEP
For larger planting projects, we help think through utilities.
We review utilities, access, spacing, and installation logistics before trees go in the ground.