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 Tennessee, public utility companies are granted utility easements, which are rights to use a portion of private property for certain utility infrastructure such as gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable lines. These easements allow utility companies to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure. Utility easements are typically established through agreements between the property owner and the utility company and are recorded in the property's deed. Tennessee law allows for the removal or trimming of trees by utility companies if they interfere with utility lines, as maintaining the reliability and safety of utility services is a priority. The specific rights and obligations of the utility companies and property owners regarding these easements are often detailed in the easement agreements and governed by state statutes and regulations.