Some trees don't make the cut

When it comes to tree trimming, Pepco — like many electric utilities — must follow specific guidelines. Only Pepco personnel can touch any tree within 10 feet of a power line, said Montgomery County spokeswoman Esther Bowring.

Similarly, Dominion Virginia Power is responsible for keeping the area near power lines in its areas of operation clear of vegetation, said spokeswoman Le-Ha Anderson. Dominion’s permitted sphere of influence is 15 feet from a power line in any direction and 50 feet from a distribution line.