Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) Rules

All electric utilities in Oregon are subject to PUC vegetation Management rules. Oregon has specific vegetation clearance requirements around electrical utility infrastructure.

PUC Chapter 860 Division 24 Safety Standards

The requirements in this rule provide the minimum standards for conductor clearances from vegetation to provide safety for the public and utility workers, reasonable service continuity, and fire prevention. Under reasonably anticipated operational conditions, an Operator of electric supply facilities must maintain the following minimum clearances of vegetation from conductors - at all times, 365 days a year:

• - 7.5 feet for conductors energized at 50,001 – 200,000 volts (i.e. OTEC overhead transmission lines)
• - 5 feet for conductors energized at 600 – 50,000 volts (i.e. OTEC overhead distribution lines)
• - <600 volts: prevent strain/abrasion (i.e. OTEC overhead secondary lines)

NOTE: The cyclical nature of OTEC’s vegetation management schedule typically requires additional clearance to account for tree growth and ability to maintain necessary separation from conductors.