Storm Debris
Q. Who do I need to call to pick up limbs and debris following a hurricane or natural disaster?
A. GRU is not responsible for picking up limbs and debris following a hurricane; however, citizens living in the city limits need to call the City's Solid Waste Division at (352) 334-2330; County residents need to call Alachua County's Waste Collection at (352) 338-3233.
Q: How can I help prevent trees and vegetation from disrupting my electric service during a storm?
A: There is no way to completely prevent trees from falling or breaking during a natural disaster, however we do have tips that can help prevent vegetation from disrupting your electric service. Trees should be inspected as far in advance as possible during or before the hurricane season. Key areas to look for are big, rotten spots or holes on the tree trunk and broken or damaged limbs that could potentially fall over power lines or cause damage to your weatherhead. We suggest hiring a tree care specialist who can perform a professional consultation and plan of action for making your vegetation as secure as possible for the hurricane season.
Q: Should I clear up vegetation debris after the storm on my own?
A: After the storm, be sure to stay away from broken trees. It is in your best interest to hire a professional to clear up any vegetation debris, as the trees are under mechanical stress and can become more dangerous if handled incorrectly.
Q: What should I look for when choosing a tree care specialist?
A: When choosing a tree care specialist make sure you compare estimation costs to ensure quality service. Also, be sure to obtain proof of insurance from the specialist as tree debris removal can be dangerous.
Q. How will fallen trees near power lines be handled?
A. One of our top priorities will be to remove trees and debris that have damaged electrical equipment and are preventing service restoration. Customers should not attempt to remove or trim foliage within 10 feet of a power line. If a tree or tree limbs have fallen on a power line or pulled it down, do not attempt to get close to the line or the tree. If the line is sparking, call GRU at (352) 334-2871 and report it as an emergency. Safety should always be your first priority when pruning. Look up to ensure that you are not working near a power line. Be especially careful when working with a ladder, scaffold, pole or tree in your yard. Do not do any trimming near a power line.
Q. What tree pruning or tree removals will GRU do on electrical wires serving an individual residence?
A. The electrical line from the pole to your residence is called a service drop and is at a voltage of either 120 or 240 volts. GRU will trim any limb that is finger size or larger that is abrading the insulation on these wires. GRU will not trim limbs that are above and not interfering with the service drop nor remove dead trees adjacent to service drops. The customer can call our work order center to schedule a line crew to disconnect the service drop so that the customer can have his private tree-trimming contractor remove the tree.
Q. Does GRU prune trees for illumination of streetlights or security lights?
GRU will trim for the installation of the lights and for access to repair the light head. Streetlights within the city limits will be maintained for illumination by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. The County’s Public Works Department will maintain streetlights for illumination within the county. Streetlights on private streets within developments and apartment complexes are to be accomplished by a private tree-trimming contractor hired by the development or apartment complex.
Q. Can GRU come on my property to maintain their facilities?
GRU has easements to construct and maintain their facilities. Additionally, when you sign up for service, the service agreement allows GRU to come on the property to service their facilities.
