Double Poles

Here, you can learn more about what double poles are, state regulations surrounding double poles, and find out how to access utility double pole reports.

Overview

Over time, utility poles in your community may require replacement because of:

• System upgrades that the existing pole cannot accommodate;
• Construction projects or municipal road work that requires a new pole; or
• Safety issues, including if the pole is in danger of failing.

The term “double pole” refers to the situation when a replacement utility pole is built alongside the pole to be replaced for the purpose of transferring the electric, telephone, cable, or other wires from one pole to the other.

Regulations and statute

• G.L. c. 164, Sec. 34(B), Replacement of existing poles
• Report of the Department of Telecommunications and Energy relative to reducing the number of double utility poles within the Commonwealth, pursuant to Chapter 46 of Acts of 2003, Section 110

Semi-annual double pole reports

The latest double pole reports filed by the electric companies can be found in D.P.U. 03-87.