Notification

We are committed to communicating with you each step of the way through the tree trimming process.

Here's what to expect:

1. Before we begin trimming, we will send you a letter letting you know we will be in the area.
   
2. Shortly after, planners will assess your neighborhood and create a trimming plan.
3. If trimming is needed on your property, we will knock on your door and leave a door hanger describing the necessary trimming. Your planner will leave his or her contact information to answer any questions you may have regarding the work planned for your property.
4. If a tree poses a serious hazard to the power lines, and/or if trimming will damage the tree's health, it may need to be removed. These trees will be marked with two white dots. In this instance, our planners will make every effort to contact you to discuss the removal. After your tree removal permit is signed, planners will mark the tree with a white "X" indicating it is ready for removal.
5. Due to many varying factors, tree trimming schedules are sometimes changed or delayed. In this event, we will do our best to inform you of those changes

Trimming and Debris

Our Tree Trimming program follows industry standards, and provides a balanced solution between reliable power and healthy trees. We work with several professional tree trimming companies, who are trained on safe and environmentally responsible tree care, to complete the tree trimming.

Details on how trees on your property will be trimmed will be provided in the door hanger left at your home.

Maintenance debris and wood removal policy

Small debris, such as leaves and small limbs, shall be chipped and removed. Larger pieces of wood shall be cut to firewood length and piled neatly on the property. All diseased wood shall be left onsite.

Storm or trouble debris and wood policy

Wood/debris by natural causes

Trees or limbs that fall due to natural causes (weather, dead/dying, disease):

• All wood and debris are the customer's responsibility for removal
• If vegetation is interfering with DTE equipment, we will remove it off the equipment and leave all wood and debris in the yard from which the tree came from
• Wood/debris is left exactly how it fell – no additional cutting or stacking will be done

Wood/debris resulting from DTE work

If wood/debris is a result of DTE work (trimming a healthy tree away from lines, trimming or removing trees to access equipment, etc.): ​

• Wood will be cut into manageable firewood-sized lengths and left neatly piled on the property​
• All debris will be chipped and removed

You don't have to choose between reliable service and beautiful trees. By planting the right trees in the right place, you can have both. The Right Tree, Right Place guide and the list of Trees Suitable for Planting in Southeast Michigan can help you decide where and what to plant.

Keep in mind other electrical equipment that may be on your property too. Keeping proper distance around this equipment ensures safety and can prevent a prolonged power outage for you and your neighbors.

Don't forget to call MISS DIG at 8-1-1 at least three business days before you break ground.

Safety

Trimming trees is not a "do-it-yourself" job, especially when it's around or near a power line. We always recommend using a professional tree trimming service to perform the work.

Kids love to climb trees. But when a tree is close to power lines, you may have more to be concerned about than falling. Teach your kids to walk around a tree and ensure there are no power lines running through or near before climbing.