Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation reminds municipalities and service organizations that temporary banners, seasonal lighting or other attachments to utility poles must be licensed by Central Hudson.

“Local towns and villages, and not-for-profit organizations, may place temporary banners, flags, lighting and other seasonal attachments on Central Hudson’s utility poles, provided the attachments meet proper clearances from electric lines, carry insurance and do not interfere with crews’ access to those lines,” said James P. Lovette, Vice President of Engineering and Environmental Affairs at Central Hudson. “Any electrical connections must meet Central Hudson’s current standards, the National Electrical Safety Code and the National Electrical Code.”

Applications for attachments are to be submitted, inspections performed and a license issued prior to the installment of temporary attachments. In addition, the licensee and its contractor must prove that they have met Central Hudson's insurance requirements.

“Applicants must also check with the requirements of other utilities, such as their local telephone company, that may share use of the poles before attachments can be made,” said Lovette. “Attachments by businesses or individuals are not allowed.”

Lovette added that even existing attachments must also be licensed. “Approved licenses will be issued without charge, however those that do not meet the requirements must be removed. There is also a fee for new electrical connections that may be required for the attachments,” he said.

To obtain a license application and information on temporary attachments, call Central Hudson at (845) 486-5290, email cwilson@cenhud.com, or log onto www.CentralHudson.com (click on “Working With Us”).

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