Cohasset Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Cohasset residents have several options for responsible brush disposal, coordinated by the Department of Public Works. From April–November, curbside yard waste collection is available, but only in biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per MassDEP. Brush bundles must be under 4-foot lengths, less than 50 lbs, and tied with biodegradable twine. The Transfer Station accepts brush with proper permits and fees. Municipal chipping programs, scheduled seasonally, offer on-site chipping and mulch distribution. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants. Never dispose of brush in streets or storm drains—violations can result in penalties and MS4 compliance issues. For more information, contact: Cohasset Department of Public Works
91 Cedar Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-0273
Website: Cohasset Department of Public Works

Cohasset Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning in Cohasset is regulated and may be restricted or prohibited depending on local ordinances and air quality conditions. Where permitted, burning is typically allowed during specific seasonal windows, with daily permits required from the Fire Department. Burning must occur at least 50-150 feet from structures, under constant supervision, with a water source (hose or extinguisher) on hand. Only brush is allowed—leaves, construction debris, and plastics are strictly prohibited. Burning is subject to weather conditions, including NWS Boston/Norton red flag warnings and drought advisories. Always verify current regulations and obtain approval before burning. For guidance, contact: Cohasset Fire Department
44 Elm Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-0616
Website: Cohasset Fire Department

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

Cohasset’s landscape, shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, supports both native and invasive brush species. Common invasives include Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora), Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus). Specialized disposal is required: remove invasives before fruit set (June–September), bag all berries, and dispose of viable seeds at a landfill—never compost or chip. Sanitize equipment between sites to prevent spread. Poison ivy, ticks (Lyme disease), and wild parsnip are hazardous; use protective gear and consult the Board of Health for safety. For invasive management, coordinate with Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. Cohasset Board of Health
24 Elm Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-4116
Website: Cohasset Board of Health

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

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, and ponds in Cohasset is regulated under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Permits (NOI or RDA) are required for work within 25-100 feet of protected resources. Erosion control measures, such as silt fences or erosion blankets, are mandatory on slopes with glacial till or clay soils. Wildlife protection is critical—conduct nesting bird surveys April–August and inspect for active dens or bat roosts. Selective removal should preserve native habitat features and create brush piles for wildlife shelter. For permitting and compliance, contact: Cohasset Conservation Commission
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-4100
Website: Cohasset Conservation Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Cohasset requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by an ISA Certified Arborist. Operators must be trained and certified for equipment such as brush hogs, forestry mulchers, and wood chippers (ANSI Z133.1). Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, eye/face protection, hearing protection (>85 dB), and steel-toed boots. Before excavation or stump removal, contact Dig Safe 811 at least 48 hours (preferably 72 hours) in advance, and maintain a 10-foot minimum distance from power lines. Commercial operators must carry 1M minimum general liability insurance (2M aggregate) and workers compensation. For utility coordination, contact: Cohasset Project Management & Engineering
91 Cedar Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-4100
Website: Cohasset Project Management & Engineering

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

Cohasset’s climate (USDA Zone 6b) influences optimal brush removal timing. Winter (Dec–March) is ideal—frozen ground minimizes soil compaction and wildlife disturbance. Early spring (March–April) is suitable before nesting season, while late fall (Oct–Nov) allows work after breeding. Avoid removal May–August to protect nesting birds and comply with fire safety during dry periods. Monitor weather via NWS Boston/Norton or Albany: avoid work in winds above 20-25 mph or on saturated soils. Conduct mandatory wildlife surveys April–August and document protected species encounters. For wildlife coordination, consult Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and Mass Audubon.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to comply with Cohasset’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. Erosion control is critical on glacial till and clay soils—use mulching, erosion blankets, and native grass seeding. Protect storm drains from sediment and organic debris, following MassDEP Stormwater Standards. Restore sites with native MA shrubs and forbs adapted to local soils. Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) and maintain restored areas for 1-2 years. Licensed applicators are required for herbicide use. For environmental monitoring, contact: Cohasset Department of Public Works
91 Cedar Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-0273
Website: Cohasset Department of Public Works

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Cohasset

Severe weather events in Cohasset, such as Nor’easters, hurricanes, and ice storms, require coordinated emergency debris management. The town announces emergency collection schedules and may 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 DPW, Police, and Fire Departments ensures public safety and efficient response. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and regional mutual aid may be activated. For emergency updates and procedures, contact: Cohasset Police Department
62 Elm Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-1212
Website: Cohasset Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Cohasset, MA?

Cohasset’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation, environmental, and infrastructure considerations. Historic Village and Jerusalem Road feature mature landscapes with extensive buckthorn and bittersweet, narrow streets, and proximity to wetlands—requiring Conservation Commission permits. Beechwood and North Cohasset have mixed native and invasive brush, moderate fire risk, and variable soil (glacial till, clay, rocky). Black Rock and King Street areas, with newer developments, face less invasive pressure but may have HOA restrictions and deed requirements. Sandy Beach and Atlantic Avenue neighborhoods are near sensitive coastal habitats, requiring special erosion control. All areas must consider utility density, equipment access, and municipal collection logistics. For neighborhood-specific guidance, contact: Cohasset Planning Board
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-4100
Website: Cohasset Planning Board

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

Cohasset enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial standards. Equipment may operate 7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions (often before 9:00 AM or prohibited—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 a Home Improvement Contractor for contracts over $1,000 (per MA law), and carry 1M minimum general liability insurance (2M aggregate). Work zones require proper traffic control and pedestrian safety measures. Code Enforcement handles violations, with penalties for non-compliance. For ordinance details, contact: Cohasset Building Inspections Department
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: 781-383-4100
Website: Cohasset Building Inspections Department