Question 1

How do you know where the ROW boundaries are?

Accepted Answer

We work from legal easement descriptions, recorded plats, utility as-built drawings, or surveyor stakes to establish exact ROW centerlines and clearing limits. If boundary markers are missing or unclear, we coordinate with a licensed surveyor to set new monuments before clearing begins. Precision is critical—clearing outside the easement creates liability; leaving growth inside the ROW fails compliance.

Question 2

Do I need a permit for ROW clearing?

Accepted Answer

Permit requirements depend on ROW type, jurisdiction, and environmental context. Utility companies often hold blanket permits for vegetation management, but private access roads or drainage easements may require county grading permits, especially if near streams, wetlands, or critical areas. We help identify permit needs and coordinate applications with Spokane, Pend Oreille, Kootenai, or Bonner county offices as part of project planning.

Question 3

What about trees that overhang the ROW from adjacent property?

Accepted Answer

Trees rooted outside the ROW cannot be removed without landowner permission, but branches overhanging the easement can typically be trimmed back to the boundary line (subject to local tree ordinances). We coordinate with adjacent landowners to explain clearing limits and address concerns. Utility companies have vegetation management rights per their easement terms, but we prioritize neighbor relations and minimize visual impact where possible.

Question 4

How do you handle debris from ROW clearing?

Accepted Answer

Debris disposal depends on ROW owner requirements and local regulations. Options include: (1) chip brush into mulch and spread within the ROW for erosion control, (2) haul all material off-site to green waste facility, (3) create burn piles for controlled burning where permitted, or (4) leave logs for firewood recovery by adjacent landowners. Utility ROW contracts often specify disposal methods—we follow those specs and document compliance.

Question 5

Can you clear ROW in winter or wet conditions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with appropriate equipment and erosion control. Tracked machines minimize ground disturbance in wet soils; frozen ground provides firm access for heavy equipment. We avoid clearing during active bird nesting season (April-July) if raptor nests are present, per Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Wet-season work requires extra erosion control (silt fencing, straw mulch) to prevent sediment runoff—we adjust methods to match seasonal conditions and permit requirements.

Question 6

How often does ROW clearing need to be repeated?

Accepted Answer

Utility ROW maintenance cycles range from 3-7 years depending on vegetation growth rate and clearance standards. Power line corridors under transmission towers are maintained more frequently than low-voltage distribution lines. Access roads may need annual mowing or brushing to maintain two-track width. We offer recurring maintenance contracts with scheduled visits to keep your ROW compliant and accessible year-round.

Feature	DIY / Others	Tacoma Creek Build Co.
Licensed & Insured	❌	✅
GPS Machine Control	❌	✅
Compaction Testing	❌	✅
Permit Coordination	Limited	✅ Full Service
Mountain Terrain Experience	❌	✅ 10+ Years
One-Call Warranty Service	❌	✅

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