Keeping it safe
Learn more about how we’re improving safety and reliability throughout our service area.
A treasure we don’t want to lose
As wildfire risks increase, we're working even more to protect the areas around our wires and equipment. This requires more visual inspections of equipment and lines, tree and brush clearing as well as installing fire resistant equipment.
Wires do not belong on trees
In some cases, we’ve discovered electrical service lines that are not up to the current standards and emerging regulatory requirements. In fact, one common problem you may have noticed is the attachment of service lines directly to trees. For everyone’s benefit, these lines will need to be detached from trees and reconnected to utility poles.
In most cases, an overhead solution can be designed and implemented at no cost to the property owner. Although there may be other options available, those may come at additional costs to the property owner.
Let’s make this happen
PGE is bringing a new contractor on board to continue this multi-year project to address this issue. As the new contractor comes on board, they will reach out to customers to schedule any appointments that are needed. We appreciate your patience.
In the meanwhile, if you have any questions about this project, you can email treeattachment@pgn.com or call 503-464-8733 (TREE) and leave a voicemail. Someone will get back to you soon.
If you have other concerns, please call Customer Service (503-464-6322) or Vegetation Management (503-736-5460).
You may have questions about this work
Here are some of the answers you’re looking for:
What’s going on in my area?
With the rising risks of wildfires, we’ve been increasing our efforts to protect the areas around our wires and equipment. This includes additional tree and brush clearing near powerlines, installing fire-resistant equipment and visually inspecting lines in areas, including the Mt. Hood corridor.
Will this work cost me anything?
In most cases, PGE will design and implement an overhead solution at no cost to you. If you prefer an option (including underground) that results in additional project costs, you will likely be responsible for those costs. The sooner you share your preferences with our design contractors, the better.
Why are you doing this work?
As a result of PGE inspections, we found some electric service lines that are not up to current standards and emerging regulatory requirements. One common problem you may have noticed is the attachment of service lines directly to trees. For everyone’s benefit, these wires need to be disconnected from trees and reconnected to a utility pole.
Why is there a stake in my yard with a pink ribbon on it?
These ribbons are being placed at locations where a new pole (or poles) could solve your tree attachment issue. Each stake has a work order number on it, which begins with the letter “M”. We would love your feedback on pole location to provide you the best solution.
Do I have a say in where a utility pole is placed?
Possibly. This depends upon what solutions may be created by our design contractors. The sooner you share your preferences with them, the better.
What are my potential options?
Here are some options that might be available to you:
New pole installation and wire redesign
If related to the scope of the project, tree removal and a new pole installation
Underground wire placement may be an option, but at your expense
When is this happening?
This is a multi-year project to bring the electrical service of many properties into compliance. Crews will be working throughout PGE’s service area as weather permits.
Why are you digging up land or removing trees?
PGE is increasing our efforts to protect the areas around our wires and equipment throughout our service area. This includes additional tree and brush clearing near powerlines, installing fire-resistant equipment and visually inspecting lines.
In some cases, we’ll need to install new poles or other equipment. Sometimes this involves digging or removing trees or other landscaping. We will be contacting property owners before starting any work on equipment on private property.
How much space is required away from wires?
Clearance to poles and wires will be kept in accordance with the requirements set forth by the Oregon Public Utility Commission.
Are there going to be any road closures of detours?
It’s not likely that we’ll have a road closure, but please keep an eye out for detour signs and follow directions from flaggers to keep you and our teams safe in work areas.
What areas will be affected?
This work will take place throughout our service area. Initially, our crews are working on private properties and federal land throughout the Mt. Hood service area, between Alder Creek and Government Camp.
Will my power go out?
There may be some power outages to ensure the safety of our crew. If your location will have a planned outage, we’ll send you a notice at least 48 hours before. You can visit portlandgeneral.com/prepare for information on how to be prepared for an unexpected outage.
Wildfire Safety
Even in historically wet, mild Oregon, summers are getting hotter and dryer with longer wildfire seasons, and the overall risk of wildfires is increasing. Because the electrical grid has the potential to cause wildfires, we’re doing more now to reduce the risk later, and keep you – and Oregon – safe.
Managing trees near power lines
Trees grow slowly but they still need regular attention, especially in urban settings. PGE's tree-trimming program is staffed with arborists and forestry experts who work tirelessly to keep you safe and reduce the chance of power outages.