Conflict with Overhead Wires Conflict with overhead wires can cause problems for both trees and wires creating maintenance problems and hazard situations. Conflict with overhead power and telephone wires is common along streets, yards, parking lots, and in commercial areas. Conflict is variable with the growth of a tree over its lifetime. This figure shows a tree whose branches are currently within 0.5 meters of overhead wires   Conflict with Structure Trees are often planted close to structures without consideration of their biological needs and actual size. Consequently trees are often blamed for causing damage to the structure while the damage to tree caused by close growth to the structure is often overlooked. Conflict between trees and structures can cause maintenance and hazard problems. Structures with which conflicts can occur include buildings, fences, curbs, sidewalks and underground pipes. Conflict with Other Trees Urban trees are usually solitary initially having no competition with other trees. This results in the development of broad crowns. At some point however, conflict may occur when tree crowns start to touch each other and compete for space and light. Conflict with Traffic Signs Street trees sometimes screen traffic signs and create an unsafe situation for motorists. Conflict with traffic signs is variable with the growth of a tree over its lifetime.