Cohasset Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

Contact Cohasset's Department of Public Works for Weed Debris Disposal & Organic Waste Management

Proper weed debris and organic waste management in Cohasset is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November, requiring the use of biodegradable paper bags only—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and weigh no more than 50 pounds per bundle. The Transfer Station operates on a permit/sticker system for residents, with posted hours and fee structures; accepted materials include leaves, grass clippings, and brush. Invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife must be bagged and landfilled, not composted, to prevent spread. Herbicide-treated material requires special handling—coordinate with the Board of Health for guidance. Chemical containers must be triple-rinsed, documented, and brought to hazardous waste events; never dispose of them in regular trash or recycling. Disposal in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited and constitutes an MS4 violation. Cohasset Department of Public Works
91 Cedar Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-0273
Website: Cohasset Department of Public Works

Understanding Common Weeds & IPM Strategies for Cohasset's Glacial Till & Rocky New England Terrain

Cohasset’s landscape features glacial till, rocky shallow soils, and marine clay, influencing weed populations and management. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelions, plantain, white clover, and ground ivy, while grassy weeds such as crabgrass, foxtail, and annual bluegrass are prevalent. Invasive species like Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife require priority attention. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, use balanced fertilization (see UMass Soil Testing Lab), core aerate compacted soils, overseed with fine fescues, and manage irrigation.
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, mulching 2-4 inches deep, landscape fabric, and flame weeding.
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, use competitive plantings, and apply corn gluten meal.
• Chemical controls: only as a last resort, using minimum effective rates and spot treatments. Soil pH (5.5-6.5) and drainage (glacial till, sandy outwash) affect both weed emergence and herbicide effectiveness. Prevention includes compost incorporation and seasonal timing, with support from UMass Extension.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Requirements for Weed Control & Water Quality Protection

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) enforces strict requirements to protect water quality during weed control. Coordination with watershed protection programs is essential, especially near streams, rivers, and wetlands. Buffer zones of 25-100 feet are required depending on application method, in accordance with the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21). Groundwater protection is critical near municipal wells and Zone II wellhead protection areas. Use low-drift nozzles and avoid applications during pollinator bloom periods. Erosion control is required during mechanical removal, with immediate revegetation and sediment barriers. For chemical applications near wetlands or vernal pools, consult the Conservation Commission and obtain necessary permits under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Cohasset Conservation Commission
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-4100
Website: Cohasset Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Cohasset

All commercial weed control in Cohasset must comply with Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) regulations. Applicators require licensing in Category 36 (Turf and Ornamental Horticulture), with 10 contact hours of continuing education every three years. Certification exams and license renewals are mandatory. Federal EPA registration is required for all products, and Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) demand strict handling and storage. IPM plans must be documented, and environmental impact assessments are needed for large-scale applications. Commercial operators must carry 1M per occurrence, 2M aggregate liability insurance, environmental impairment coverage, and workers compensation. Detailed application logs, adverse incident reports, and customer notifications are required. Coordination with U.S. EPA Region 1 and municipal monitoring programs is essential.

Cohasset Board of Health Guidelines for Pesticide Application & Public Safety Protection

The Cohasset Board of Health oversees public safety during pesticide applications. Advance public notification is required 24-48 hours before treatment, with clear signage. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are enforced from property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites like schools and healthcare facilities. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas. Risk management includes barriers to protect children, pets, and sensitive individuals, and emergency contacts for exposure (poison control: 1-800-222-1222). Applicators must use PPE, calibrate equipment, and prevent spills or drift. Post-application monitoring ensures effectiveness and environmental safety. Cohasset Board of Health
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-4100
Website: Cohasset Board of Health

Seasonal Weed Control Calendar & Weather Timing for Cohasset's Climate Zone 6b

Cohasset’s climate (Zone 6b) shapes weed control timing. In early spring, when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F, apply pre-emergent controls for crabgrass (late March–early April). Late spring (May–June) is optimal for broadleaf weed control during active growth. Summer (July–August) requires spot treatments and nutsedge management, with increased irrigation during dry spells. Fall (September–October) is best for perennial weed control and pre-emergent treatment for winter annuals. Avoid applications before predicted rainfall (24-48 hours), and observe wind speed limits (under 10 mph for liquids, under 15 mph for granular). Temperature should be 60-85°F; avoid above 90°F. Consider microclimates—coastal salt exposure, urban heat islands, and proximity to water bodies. Coordinate with wildlife breeding and pollinator bloom periods, and municipal landscaping schedules using National Weather Service Boston/Norton.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Cohasset

Cohasset’s stormwater management is governed by MS4 permit requirements under the Clean Water Act. Best management practices prevent chemical runoff into storm drains, protecting Massachusetts Bay and local water bodies. Follow MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards and coordinate with EPA NPDES programs. Mixing and loading must occur at least 100 feet from storm drains or water bodies, with secondary containment for storage. Immediate spill response and proper equipment wash water management are required. Long-term, IPM reduces chemical loads and protects aquatic ecosystems. Enforcement includes reporting, inspections, and timely correction of violations, in coordination with municipal and state agencies. Cohasset Department of Public Works
91 Cedar Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-0273
Website: Cohasset Department of Public Works

Safe Handling, Storage & Disposal of Weed Control Products Under Massachusetts Regulations

Safe storage of weed control products requires locked, ventilated facilities at least 100 feet from wells or water supplies, with temperature control (40-90°F). Inventory should follow FIFO (first in, first out) and be secured against unauthorized access. PPE must be selected per product label and Safety Data Sheets. Mixing and loading should occur in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and equipment must be decontaminated between uses. Triple-rinse empty containers, document disposal, and use hazardous waste events for leftover chemicals. Never dispose of chemicals in drains, soil, or trash. Emergency response includes first aid, spill containment, and coordination with the Fire Department and municipal emergency services. Cohasset Fire Department
44 Elm Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-0616
Website: Cohasset Fire Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Cohasset, MA?

Cohasset’s neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges. The Village and Harbor areas feature marine clay soils and salt exposure, requiring salt-tolerant plantings. Beechwood and North Cohasset have glacial till with poor drainage, while Sandy Beach and Jerusalem Road areas are influenced by sandy outwash and coastal microclimates. Rocky shallow soils are common in the Highland and Forest Avenue districts. Regulatory sensitivities include proximity to wetlands (buffer zones per Wetlands Protection Act), Zone II wellhead protection, and school zones. Community values, historic district standards, and HOA covenants influence management methods. Weed populations vary, with invasive species concentrated near disturbed sites and resistance issues in areas with repeated herbicide use. Integration with existing landscape practices and seasonal occupancy patterns is essential. Cohasset Water Department
339 King Street, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-0057
Website: Cohasset Water Department

Cohasset Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Cohasset enforces strict ordinances for equipment operation and commercial weed control services. Permitted operating hours are 7:00 AM–7:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions (often no operation before 9:00 AM). Noise and decibel limits apply, especially in residential areas and during holidays. Commercial applicators must hold a business license, register with the municipality, and provide 1M minimum liability insurance, workers compensation, and environmental impairment coverage. MDAR Category 36 certification is required. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, and public notification 24-48 hours in advance. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation of waste disposal, in accordance with MassDEP and local ordinances. Cohasset Building Inspections Department
41 Highland Avenue, Cohasset, MA 02025
Phone: (781) 383-4100
Website: Cohasset Building Inspections Department