The majestic forests of the East Kootenay region—from Cranbrook to Fernie—are part of what makes living here so special. But when those magnificent trees intersect with critical infrastructure like power lines, they become the single greatest threat to public safety and service reliability.
With over 35 years of experience serving the Cranbrook area, Scott Wills Tree Service provides the region’s only truly qualified response, backed by our team of Certified Utility Arborists who are trained specifically to work within the high-risk proximity zone.
Safety First: The Three-Metre Rule
The “Three-Metre Rule” (or 10-foot rule) is the golden standard for electrical safety in British Columbia. This clearance distance is legally enforced by WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and applies to all workers, tools, and equipment.
This rule is non-negotiable because the pole-to-pole distribution lines in our area carry enough voltage (up to 25,000V) to cause electricity to jump, or arc, across a gap.
Crucial Safety Note: BC Hydro recommends staying back 3 metres from all overhead power lines, regardless of type, unless you are a qualified professional.