How to Remove an Abandoned PPL Electric Pole

Get written permission from PPL to remove the abandoned pole. The pole is the specific property of PPL and abandonment does not automatically relinquish title to the pole. Contact the Engineering Department at PPL and request written permission to remove the pole before you remove the pole, or have it removed by others. Request written permission from PPL by telephone or letter (see Resources). Have the written permission in hand before removing the pole.

Undertake removal of the pole yourself with tools and equipment that you own or can rent from a local equipment rental store or contact a tree removal service to have the pole removed. You will need to use a heavy-duty chain saw to cut down the pole.

Select the direction you want the pole to fall. Mark a line on the ground pointing in the direction of the fall. Dig a shallow hole approximately 6 feet in diameter to cut the pole below ground level. This will eliminate pulling the pole stump.

Make two cuts on the side of the pole facing the direction of the fall. Make the cuts below ground level. The first cut will be a horizontal cut halfway through the dimension of the pole. The second cut begins about 6 inches above the horizontal cut. Angle this cut so that it meets the horizontal cut at a point halfway through the pole dimension.

Move to the opposite side of the pole. Before making the final cut, make sure that all people and objects are clear of the intended fall line. Make a horizontal cut to meet the point where the opposite two cuts meet. As the pole begins to fall, shout "Timber" loudly. The pole should fall on your intended line.

Shovel soil into the shallow hole to cover the pole stump. Add additional soil if necessary.

Cut the fallen pole in 2-foot lengths with the chain saw to use it for firewood. Use an axe and wedge to split the cut lengths into handy sizes for your fireplace.