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 Connecticut, public utility companies, such as those providing gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable services, are typically granted utility easements to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure on private property. These easements allow the utility companies legal access to a specific portion of the property for the purpose of laying transmission or distribution lines and related equipment. Utility easements are often established through agreements with property owners or by law, and may be recorded in the property's deed. When necessary, utility companies are also permitted to remove or trim trees that could interfere with the operation of power lines. The scope of these easements, including the extent of the area covered and the specific rights of the utility companies, is usually defined in the easement agreement or by state statutes. Connecticut law requires utility companies to follow certain procedures when exercising their rights under a utility easement, including providing notice to property owners and minimizing damage to the property.