FAQs

We trim trees to maintain a safe clearance from overhead lines and to keep our service reliable during storms, high winds and other extreme weather.

We maintain vegetation near primary overhead lines (only crews and approved contractors can work within three metres of an overhead powerline). Submit your tree trimming request online. 

Property owners are responsible for trees and vegetation around service wires (the line that feeds your home) and outside Hydro Ottawa’s clearance area. Our inspectors can provide you with a quote for any tree-trimming that is outside the 3 metre radius. We can also provide a quote to trim the vegetation around your service wire.

For trees on city-owned property, call 3-1-1.

Yes. We can arrange a temporary power outage, so your contractor can work safely. Submit a tree trimming request to schedule an inspection or a temporary disconnection.

For planned maintenance, you’ll receive advance notice (by phone or hand-delivered to your door). For emergencies/storm response, we may act without notice to restore power safely.

We won’t charge you if we trim within the three-metre clearance zone. Pruning outside this area is the homeowner’s responsibility, but we can provide a free quote. For trees on city property, call 3-1-1.

For routine maintenance, Hydro Ottawa’s contractors remove branches and debris. For storm damage or customer-requested work, debris removal and cleanup is the homeowner’s responsibility.

No. We don’t leave wood chips or tree branches on site.

No. But you can find qualified professionals via the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

Yes. We offer a Tree Planting Advice brochure to help you choose the right tree for the right place.