Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission ruling: Homeowners win on no more tree topping - IN

Just One Minute | IndyStar.com | The Indianapolis Star:
Indiana homeowners angry about utility crews hacking off the tops of trees without their permission, leaving ugly gaps, won a victory Tuesday.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission ruled that utilities can't top trees or remove more than 25 percent of a tree's canopy without the homeowner's permission.

'If the property owner does not consent, the utility must offer alternatives,' a news release about the ruling said.

Utilities also must contact homeowners personally and notify them in writing at least two weeks before trimming. They must use public rights of way or easements, or get permission from property owners to enter private property.

The decision follows months of input from residents at six public meetings across the state.