Norwell Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

Contact Norwell's Department of Public Works for Brush Disposal & Municipal Chipping Programs

Proper brush disposal in Norwell is managed through seasonal curbside collection (April–November), requiring biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per MassDEP. Brush bundles must not exceed 4-foot lengths or 50 lbs, and must be tied with biodegradable twine. Residents may also use the Transfer Station, which requires permits and may involve fees. Municipal chipping programs are available seasonally (spring/fall), with finished mulch sometimes offered to residents. Coordination with the Department of Public Works ensures compliance with Massachusetts organic waste regulations, which prohibit brush in household trash and require separation from leaves. Never place brush in the street or storm drains, as this can result in MS4 violations and penalties. For more information or to schedule chipping, contact:
Norwell Department of Public Works
345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-8076
Official Website: Norwell Department of Public Works(https://norwelldpw.com/)

Norwell Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Norwell is subject to strict regulations, with many Massachusetts towns restricting or prohibiting the practice. Always verify local ordinances and obtain a daily permit from the Fire Department if burning is allowed. Burning is typically permitted only during specific seasonal windows and must comply with MassDEP air quality standards. Safety requirements include:

• Minimum setbacks of 50-150 feet from structures
• Continuous supervision and a water source (hose/extinguisher)
• Prohibition of burning leaves, construction debris, treated lumber, rubber, or plastics
• Site preparation and weather monitoring (no burning during high winds or red flag warnings per NWS Boston/Norton) Maintain defensible space of 30-100 feet around rural structures and ensure emergency vehicle access. For permits and fire safety guidance, contact:
  Norwell Fire Department
  300 Washington Street, Norwell, MA 02061
  Phone: (781) 659-8072
  Official Website: Norwell Fire Department(https://www.townofnorwell.net/fire-department)

Understanding Brush Types, Invasive Species & Specialized Disposal in Norwell's Glacial Till & Rocky New England Terrain

Norwell’s landscape, shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, supports both native and invasive brush species. Common invasive species include:

• Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and *Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus)
• Bush Honeysuckles (Amur, Morrow's, Tartarian)
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora)
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)
• Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) Specialized disposal is required: remove invasives before fruit set (June–September), bag berries to prevent seed spread, sanitize equipment between sites, and dispose of viable seeds at a landfill (never compost or chip). Hazardous vegetation like poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats are common—use protective clothing and coordinate with the Board of Health for safety. Promote native restoration (oak, serviceberry, viburnum, blueberry) and consult Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and MA Dept of Agricultural Resources for invasive management.
  Norwell Board of Health
  345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
  Phone: (781) 659-8016
  Official Website: Norwell Board of Health(https://townofnorwell.net/departments/health)

Norwell Conservation Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, and ponds in Norwell is regulated under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Permits (NOI/RDA) are required for work within 25-100 feet of protected resources. Erosion control is critical on glacial till/clay slopes—use silt fences or erosion blankets. Wildlife protection mandates nesting bird surveys from April–August (especially May–June) and checks for active dens or bat roosts. Seasonal restrictions may apply for migratory birds and vernal pool species. Selective removal should preserve habitat features and create brush piles for wildlife shelter. For permitting and guidance, contact:
Norwell Conservation Commission
345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-8022
Official Website: Norwell Conservation Commission(https://townofnorwell.net/departments/conservation)

Professional Safety Standards, Equipment Requirements & Utility Coordination (Dig Safe 811) for Brush Removal

Professional brush removal in Norwell requires adherence to safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, with operators trained in invasive identification and equipment use (ANSI Z133.1). Required PPE includes chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, eye/face protection, hearing protection (>85 dB), and steel-toed boots. Always coordinate with Dig Safe 811 at least 48 hours (preferably 72 hours) before excavation or stump removal, maintaining a 10-foot minimum distance from power lines. Commercial operators must carry general liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. Proof of Dig Safe compliance is mandatory for all projects.
Norwell Department of Public Works
345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-8076
Official Website: Norwell Department of Public Works(https://norwelldpw.com/)

Seasonal Timing, Wildlife Protection & Weather Coordination for Norwell's Climate Zone 6b

Norwell’s USDA Zone 6b climate influences optimal brush removal timing. Best practices include:

• Winter (Dec–March): Frozen ground minimizes soil compaction/rutting
• Early Spring (March–April): Before nesting season, after ground thaws
• Late Fall (Oct–Nov): After breeding season, before ground freezes
• Summer (May–August): Avoid due to nesting bird protection and fire risk Monitor weather via NWS Boston/Norton or Albany; avoid work during winds above 20-25 mph or saturated soils. Red flag warnings and drought conditions require burning restrictions. Wildlife surveys are mandatory April–August, and all encounters with protected species should be documented and coordinated with Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.
  Norwell Community Development
  345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
  Phone: (781) 659-8026
  Official Website: Norwell Community Development(https://www.norwellma.gov/community-development)

Post-Removal Site Restoration & Stormwater Management in Compliance with Norwell's MS4 Program

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to comply with the Clean Water Act and Norwell’s MS4 permit. Key steps include:

• Erosion control for exposed glacial till/clay soils (mulch, blankets, silt fences)
• Protection of storm drains from sediment/organic debris
• Reestablishment of native MA species (shrubs, grasses, forbs)
• Soil amendment and decompaction if needed
• Temporary erosion control during plant establishment
• Daily cleanup to prevent debris migration Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) within 1-2 years and use licensed applicators for herbicide if necessary. Coordinate with MassDEP Stormwater Standards and municipal environmental monitoring.
  Norwell Engineering Division
  345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
  Phone: (781) 659-8076
  Official Website: Norwell Engineering Division(https://norwelldpw.com/engineering)

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Norwell

Severe weather events in Norwell, such as Nor’easters, hurricanes, and ice storms, require coordinated emergency debris management. The town issues emergency collection announcements and may extend yard waste hours or open temporary drop-off sites. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place items curbside without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares. Coordination with the Department of Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments ensures public safety and efficient response. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage may be required. For emergency procedures and updates, contact:
Norwell Police Department
300A Washington Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-7979
Official Website: Norwell Police Department(https://townofnorwell.net/departments/police_department/index.php)

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Norwell, MA?

Norwell’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation, environmental, and infrastructure considerations. Historic areas (e.g., Norwell Center, River Street) often have mature buckthorn and bittersweet, narrow streets, and stone walls, requiring careful equipment access and adherence to Historic District requirements. Newer developments (Wildcat Hill, Tiffany Road) face less invasive pressure but may have HOA restrictions and deed requirements for landscaping. Wetland-adjacent neighborhoods (Stetson Meadows, Mount Blue Street) require Conservation Commission permits and erosion control due to high water tables and glacial till/clay soils. Proximity to conservation land (Norris Reservation, Jacobs Pond) increases habitat sensitivity and protected species concerns. Disposal logistics vary: some areas have direct curbside access, while others rely on the Transfer Station or municipal chipping. Community standards range from natural landscaping to manicured expectations, influencing restoration approaches.
Norwell Recreation Department
18 South Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-8046
Official Website: Norwell Recreation Department(https://townofnorwell.net/departments/recreation_department/index.php)

Norwell Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Norwell enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation. Typical hours are 7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday work often restricted before 9:00 AM or prohibited—always verify local bylaws. Noise and decibel limits apply, especially near residential areas and during special events. Commercial operators must be licensed with the Town Clerk, registered as Home Improvement Contractors for contracts over $1,000 (per MA law), and carry insurance (1M minimum general liability, 2M aggregate, workers compensation). All work zones require proper traffic control and pedestrian safety measures (ANSI Z133). Code Enforcement oversees compliance, with penalties for violations and required correction timeframes. For ordinance details and permits, contact:
Norwell Building Department
345 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061
Phone: (781) 659-8018
Official Website: Norwell Building Department(https://townofnorwell.net/departments/building)