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 Iowa, public utility companies are typically granted utility easements, which are rights to use a portion of private property for utility infrastructure such as gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, cable, and other services. These easements allow the utility companies to install, repair, and maintain their lines and equipment. The easements are often established through negotiations with property owners or through eminent domain proceedings if an agreement cannot be reached. Iowa law requires utility companies to follow certain procedures when exercising their rights under a utility easement, including providing notice to property owners before trimming or removing trees that may interfere with utility lines. The specific rights and obligations of the utility companies and the property owners are typically outlined in the easement agreements, which are recorded and run with the land. It's important for property owners to understand the terms of any utility easements on their property, as these can affect their rights and responsibilities regarding the use and maintenance of the property.