Why does Los Angeles County want to bury power lines?

Los Angeles County wants to bury power lines to prevent them from causing or exacerbating wildfires, as seen in past devastating fire events.

Are all companies burying their power lines in LA County?

No, Southern California Edison is burying its lines, but some telecommunications companies are refusing to do the same.

Is undergrounding power lines more expensive?

Yes, installing power lines underground is more expensive upfront than using overhead poles, but it offers significant long-term benefits.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / LA County Fights Telecoms to Bury Wires

LA County Fights Telecoms to Bury Wires

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Officials want power lines buried to prevent future wildfire damage.
Southern California Edison is burying lines, but telecom firms refuse.
Undergrounding is more expensive but offers long-term safety benefits.

Following devastating wildfires, Los Angeles County is intensifying efforts to move power lines underground. Supervisors voted to direct county officials to file a formal complaint with the California Public Utilities Commission against telecom companies that are refusing to join the undergrounding initiative. Southern California Edison is already relocating 40 miles of electrical lines underground in areas like Topanga Canyon and along Pacific Coast Highway.

Despite Edison's participation, some telecommunication providers are unwilling to move their equipment, leaving poles in place even after power lines are removed. This shared infrastructure poses a problem, as all parties must agree for the poles to be dismantled. Officials highlight past incidents, like the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, where downed poles and wires obstructed evacuation routes.