Tree trimming helps maintain safe and reliable electricity in Kingston.

Utilities Kingston is continuing its commitment to community safety and reliable electricity service through its annual Vegetation Management Program. This program began in late April and continues through November 30, 2026.

Trained arborists from ECO Tree Care will be trimming trees and vegetation near power lines in Area 1 of the Kingston Hydro distribution system. You can see a list of the neighbourhoods included in this area below.

This proactive work helps prevent power outages, reduces safety risks, and ensures compliance with industry safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Neighbourhoods included in area 1

Tree trimming work will take place in the following neighbourhoods this year:

• Portsmouth
• Fairway Hills
• Calvin Park
• Strathcona Park
• Polson Park
• Grenville Park
• Cataraqui North
• Hillendale
• Alcan (note: only the end portion of Dalton Ave.)
• Kingston Penitentiary area

A map of the work area is available here.

What residents can expect

Access to properties

Crews may require access to backyards or laneways to safely complete work. If back-lot access is needed, ECO Tree Care will deliver notices to affected residents approximately one week in advance.

Planned power outages

In some cases, short, planned outages may be required to complete work safely.

• Customers will receive advance notification.
• Outage updates are also available here.

Tree trimming and removal

• Fast-growing, invasive, or hazardous trees near high-voltage lines may be trimmed more aggressively.
• Trees located too close to power lines or poles may need to be trimmed or removed entirely.
• Vegetation marked with orange tape has been identified for removal, as pruning alone would leave the tree unstable or unable to survive.

Cleanup

Crews will clean up debris from the work area once trimming is completed. Larger pieces of wood may be left on-site for homeowners to use or dispose of, where appropriate.

Private trees

If trimming or removal of a privately owned tree is required to maintain safe electrical clearances:

• Crews will conduct minor trimming of privately owned trees at no cost to the property owner.
• Property owners are responsible for significant work associated with private tree trimming. In this case, crews will communicate with property owners.

Service lines

Please note that homeowners are responsible for clearing vegetation from their service line (the wire that runs from the utility pole to the home).

How you can help

Utilities Kingston appreciates residents’ cooperation in helping crews work safely and efficiently. Here's how you can help: 

• Ensure crews can safely access your backyard if required
• Secure pets during work hours
• Clean up after dogs if they use the yard

Planting the right tree in the right location helps prevent power outages and property damage while keeping everyone safe. Before planting a tree, please remember to: 

• Look up and down to identify overhead and underground utility lines
• Choose a species with a mature height and width appropriate for the location
• Leave adequate space from power lines, buildings, and infrastructure
• Click before you dig — visit OntarioOneCall.ca to locate underground utilities (it’s free and required by law)

Questions?

Visit our tree trimming page for more information or contact Utilities Kingston Customer Service at 613-546-1181, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.