Abington Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Residents of Abington can manage brush and yard waste through several town-supported options. From April–November, curbside collection is available for yard waste in biodegradable paper bags only—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per MassDEP. Brush must be bundled with biodegradable twine, in 4-foot lengths, and weigh under 50 lbs per bundle. For larger loads, the Transfer Station accepts brush with a valid permit and applicable fees. The Abington Department of Public Works 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2122
Website: Abington Department of Public Works coordinates municipal chipping programs, often scheduled in spring and fall, and may offer finished mulch to residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants. Never dispose of brush in the street or storm drains—violations can result in penalties and MS4 compliance issues.

Abington Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning in Abington is regulated and may be restricted or prohibited depending on local ordinances and air quality standards. Residents must obtain a daily permit from the Abington Fire Department 1040 Bedford Street, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2114
Website: Abington Fire Department before burning brush during the designated season. Burning must occur at least 50-150 feet from structures, under constant supervision, with a water source (hose or extinguisher) on hand. Prohibited materials include leaves, construction debris, and plastics. Always check MassDEP air quality and NWS Boston/Norton for red flag warnings or high-risk weather. Burning may be cancelled on days with high winds, low humidity, or drought. Maintain defensible space around rural properties and ensure emergency vehicle access in compliance with MA fire codes.

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

Abington’s landscape, shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, supports both native and invasive brush species. Common invasives 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 sets (June–September), bag berries to prevent seed spread, and sanitize equipment between sites. Viable seeds must go to landfill—never compost or chip. Coordinate with Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and MA Dept of Agricultural Resources for guidance. Be alert for hazardous vegetation like poison ivy, wild parsnip, and ticks. The Abington Board of Health 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
  Phone: (781) 982-2119
  Website: Abington Board of Health can provide information on health risks. Restore sites with native oaks, serviceberry, viburnum, and blueberry, and consult Mass Audubon for ecological restoration.

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

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, and ponds in Abington 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 these resources. The Abington Conservation Commission 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2100
Website: Abington Conservation Commission reviews applications and enforces erosion control, especially on sloped glacial till or clay soils. Wildlife protection is critical: conduct nesting bird surveys April–August and inspect for active dens or bat roosts. Seasonal restrictions may apply for migratory birds and vernal pool species. Selective removal should preserve habitat features, and brush piles can provide shelter for wildlife. Coordinate with conservation organizations for restoration.

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

Professional brush removal in Abington requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by an ISA Certified Arborist, with operators trained in invasive species identification and equipment use (brush hogs, forestry mulchers, wood chippers per ANSI Z133.1). Required PPE includes chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, eye/face protection, hearing protection (>85 dB), and steel-toed boots. Always call Dig Safe 811 at least 48 hours (preferably 72 hours) before excavation or stump removal, maintaining a 10-foot minimum distance from power lines. Liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding are required for commercial work. Emergency communication devices and first aid certification are recommended for remote or hazardous sites.

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

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

• Winter (Dec–March): Frozen ground minimizes soil compaction and wildlife disturbance
• 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 birds and fire risk Monitor weather via NWS Boston/Norton or Albany: avoid work during winds above 20-25 mph or after heavy rain on glacial till/clay. Red flag warnings and droughts require burning restrictions. Wildlife surveys are mandatory April–August; coordinate with Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and document protected species encounters.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential for compliance with the Clean Water Act and Abington’s MS4 permit. Erosion control is critical on glacial till/clay soils—use mulching, erosion control blankets, and native grass seeding. Protect storm drains from sediment and debris, following MassDEP Stormwater Standards. Replant with native shrubs and grasses adapted to local soils. The Abington Department of Public Works 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2122
Website: Abington Department of Public Works can advise on stormwater management. Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) for 1-2 years post-removal. Licensed applicators are required for herbicide use per MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. Integrate restoration with sustainability and conservation goals.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Abington

Severe weather events in Abington, such as Nor’easters, hurricanes, and ice storms, require coordinated storm debris management. The Abington Department of Public Works 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2122
Website: Abington Department of Public Works issues emergency collection schedules and may open temporary drop-off sites. Separate organic brush from construction debris and place at the curb without blocking streets or sidewalks. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, with traffic control provided by the Abington Police Department 215 Central Street, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 878-3232
Website: Abington Police Department. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and regional mutual aid may be activated. Public safety is paramount—report hazards like downed power lines or gas leaks immediately. Worker safety protocols are enforced for hazardous conditions, including unstable trees and limbs.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Abington, MA?

Abington’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation and infrastructure considerations. Historic areas (e.g., North Abington, Center) often have mature buckthorn and bittersweet, narrow streets, and overhead utilities, requiring careful equipment access and traffic control. Newer developments (e.g., Island Grove, Chestnut Glen) have less invasive pressure but may have HOA landscaping requirements. Wetland-adjacent neighborhoods (e.g., Beaver Brook, Island Grove) require Conservation Commission permits and erosion control due to high water tables and glacial till/clay soils. Proximity to conservation land or state parks increases the need for wildlife protection and buffer zone compliance. Disposal logistics vary: some areas have easy curbside access, while others rely on the Transfer Station or municipal chipping. Restoration expectations may be higher in neighborhoods with deed restrictions or within the Historic District.

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

Abington enforces municipal ordinances for brush removal to ensure public safety and community standards. Equipment operation is generally allowed 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—verify with the Town of Abington – Code Enforcement & Public Notices 500 Gliniewicz Way, Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (781) 982-2100
Website: Town of Abington – Code Enforcement & Public Notices. Noise limits and right-of-way permits may apply. Commercial operators must hold a business license, register as a Home Improvement Contractor for contracts over $1,000, and carry 1M minimum general liability insurance (2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. Certification (ISA Arborist) and ANSI Z133 compliance are required. Code Enforcement investigates violations, with penalties for non-compliance and required correction timeframes.