Athens-Clarke County / Storm tree safety

Storm-damaged tree in Athens: who to call first

A tree on a wire, a tree across a public street and a limb in a private yard are different problems. Put people and utility safety before any cleanup quote.

Start with four safety checks ↗

A safe decision sequence

Four checks before
tree cleanup.

Do not approach a damaged tree, wire or unstable structure to follow this guide. Call emergency services when people are at risk.

Keep everyone away from wires

Treat every fallen or low wire as energized. Georgia Power says never remove a limb or other object from a downed line; keep children and pets away and call 911 when someone is in danger. Report a downed line to your actual electric utility. Georgia Power customers can use 1-888-891-0938; Athens-Clarke lists Jackson EMC, Rayle EMC and Walton EMC as other providers, so do not assume Georgia Power serves the address.

Do not clear a public road yourself

Athens-Clarke County says residents should never clear downed trees or limbs from roadways because wires can hide in debris. Its FAQ directs reports of a tree blocking a street to 911 or Landscape Management at (706) 613-3561 during normal working hours, and 911 after hours. Tell responders the street, nearest cross street and whether you can see wires, without approaching them.

Document private-property damage from a safe spot

If the tree landed near your home but no immediate danger remains, take photos only from a safe location. Note damaged areas and avoid moving the trunk until the utility and any relevant emergency responders have addressed hazards. Ask your insurer what documentation it wants; coverage depends on your policy and circumstances.

Get a written scope before non-emergency cleanup

Once officials say it is safe to arrange private work, ask contractors what they will remove, how they will protect a structure, who handles debris and stump work, and whether an emergency mobilization charge applies. Do not use the homepage calculator for storm work; it explicitly excludes hazardous and emergency jobs.

A common safety question

Should I pull a fallen limb off a power line?

No. Georgia Power says not to touch a downed line or remove a tree limb from one. A line may remain live even if it is silent or the power appears out. Stay back, warn others, contact your actual electric utility and call 911 for an immediate threat.

Who to call

Use the right route.

For a street blockage, Athens-Clarke says call 911 or Landscape Management (706) 613-3561 during its published work hours, and 911 after hours. For lines, use your actual power provider; Georgia Power lists 1-888-891-0938 for downed lines.

Sources and limits

Check the official safety guidance.

Sources reviewed September 25, 2026. Utility territory and staff hours can change. This is safety planning information, not emergency dispatch or an offer of 24/7 service.

Check the local permit guide ↗

Compare stump-grinding scope after the scene is safe ↗

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