Public utility companies (gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, cable, etc.) often have easements to place utility transmission, distribution, or power lines on private property and access them for installation, repair, and maintenance—including removing or trimming trees that might interfere with transmission or distribution power lines, for example. These easements are known as utility easements or public utility easements.

In North Carolina, public utility companies are granted utility easements, which are rights to use a portion of private property for certain utility infrastructure such as gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable lines. These easements allow utility companies to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure. Utility easements are typically established through agreements between the property owner and the utility company and are recorded in the property's deed. North Carolina law also allows for the exercise of eminent domain by utility companies if necessary to establish an easement, provided that the use is for a public purpose and just compensation is paid to the property owner. Additionally, utility companies have the authority to remove or trim trees that may interfere with utility lines, as maintaining the reliability and safety of utility services is a priority. The specific rights and obligations of the utility company and the property owner will be outlined in the easement agreement, and any disputes may be resolved through negotiation or litigation.