Utility easements can include which of the following?

Utility easements can include a portion of an individual tree because the purpose of an easement is to grant utility companies the right to access equipment or infrastructure necessary for service delivery, which may include trimming or removing parts of trees that interfere with power lines or other utilities. Trees can extend both above and below ground, and if a tree’s branches or roots encroach upon the easement, the utility has the right to manage those portions to ensure safety and functionality of their infrastructure.

This choice reflects the practical considerations of maintaining safe distances between trees and utility lines, which is essential for preventing power outages or hazards. Utility companies typically aim to preserve as much of the tree as possible while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational efficiency, making the ability to manage a portion of an individual tree a key aspect of easement agreements.