1. (a) While trimming trees as part of the utility's maintenance program, the electric utility shall consider the health of the plant involved, the goodwill of property owners, and the safety of the personnel to the extent practical.

2. (b)

   1. (1) Trees that may interfere with electric conductors shall be trimmed or removed.

   2. (2) Factors to be considered in determining the extent of tree trimming required include:

      1. (A) Normal tree growth;
      2. (B) The combined movement of trees and conductors under adverse weather conditions;
      3. (C) Voltage;
      4. (D) Sagging of conductors at elevated temperatures; and
      5. (E) Economic trimming cycles.
3. (c) Where the utility determines trimming or removal is not practical, the conductor shall be separated from the tree with suitable materials or devices to avoid conductor damage by abrasion and grounding of the circuit through the tree.

Codification Notes: This section was promulgated as Rule 4.03 of the Special Rules — Electric prior to codification in the Code of Arkansas Rules.