Public utility companies (gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, cable, etc.) often have easements to place utility transmission, distribution, or power lines on private property and access them for installation, repair, and maintenance—including removing or trimming trees that might interfere with transmission or distribution power lines, for example. These easements are known as utility easements or public utility easements.
In Texas, public utility companies are granted utility easements to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure on private property. These easements allow companies providing essential services such as gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable to place transmission and distribution lines across private lands. The easements are typically established through negotiations and are recorded in property deeds or easement agreements. Property owners are usually compensated for granting these easements. Texas law allows utility companies to trim or remove trees that could interfere with utility lines to ensure reliable service and public safety. However, utility companies must comply with regulations and are often required to notify property owners before conducting such maintenance. Disputes over easements may be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, and property owners retain certain rights to ensure that the easement is not overly burdensome.
