Pembroke Plant Removal Services

Our Plant Removal Process

Contact Pembroke's Department of Public Works for Plant Material Disposal & Organic Waste Management

Proper plant material disposal in Pembroke is managed by the Department of Public Works (DPW), with seasonal yard waste collection running from April–November. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are prohibited per MassDEP guidelines. Woody debris should be bundled with biodegradable twine, not exceeding 4-foot lengths or 50-lb per bundle. The Transfer Station requires a resident sticker for access, and contractors may need permits or pay fees. Specialized disposal is required for certain materials: invasive species must be double-bagged in 6 mil heavy-duty plastic and sent to a certified landfill, never composted or chipped. Diseased plants follow quarantine and controlled disposal protocols, while hazardous plants like poison ivy, giant hogweed, and wild parsnip require special handling. Healthy native plants are suitable for municipal composting, and large woody material may be coordinated with municipal chipping services. Immediate cleanup is essential to prevent the spread of invasive seeds or pathogens, and all materials must remain on private property until collection to avoid MS4 violations. For more information, contact: Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1430
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works

Professional Plant Assessment, Species Identification & Removal Prioritization in Pembroke's Glacial Till & Rocky New England Terrain

Professional botanical assessment in Pembroke involves accurate species identification using taxonomic keys and scientific nomenclature, with health and vigor evaluations to determine removal priorities. Invasive species are identified using the MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife prohibited plant lists, and diagnostic support is available through UMass Extension. Site evaluations consider local soils—glacial till with poor drainage, sandy outwash, rocky shallow soils, and marine clay in low-lying areas. Root system types (taproot, fibrous, rhizomatous) and ecological value for wildlife are assessed. Removal is prioritized for invasive species, diseased or hazardous plants, and declining ornamentals, with documentation including before-and-after photos, species verification, and restoration planning. For site-specific guidance, contact: Pembroke Conservation Commission
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3844
Website: Pembroke Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Conservation Commission Requirements for Plant Removal & Water Quality Protection

Plant removal within 25-100 feet of wetlands, vernal pools, or water bodies in Pembroke requires permits under the Wetlands Protection Act, such as a Notice of Intent (NOI) or Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA). Pre-application site visits and public hearings are standard, with seasonal restrictions to protect nesting birds (March-Aug) and vernal pools (March-June). Environmental assessments evaluate impacts on soil stability, erosion, and wildlife habitat, with root zone protection and temporary erosion controls (silt fence, straw wattles) required on slopes >15%. Material staging must be 50-100 feet from water bodies. Restoration plans often require native species replacement and long-term monitoring. For permitting and compliance, contact: Pembroke Conservation Commission
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3844
Website: Pembroke Conservation Commission

Invasive Species Management & Specialized Disposal Requirements Under Massachusetts Regulations

Pembroke faces challenges from invasive species such as common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), bush honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), and oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus). Removal protocols, per MA Dept Agricultural Resources, emphasize timing before seed dispersal (June-Sept), mechanical methods (cut-stump, root extraction), and selective herbicide use by licensed applicators. Equipment must be sanitized between sites with 70% isopropyl alcohol or 10% bleach solution. Invasive debris must be bagged in 6 mil plastic and landfilled—never composted or chipped. Follow-up monitoring at 6-month and annual intervals is essential. For technical support, consult: Pembroke Board of Health
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-2718
Website: Pembroke Board of Health

Professional Certification, Safety Standards & Hazardous Plant Protocols

Plant removal professionals in Pembroke must hold MA Certified Arborist or ISA Certified Arborist credentials, with specialized training in invasive species management and a pesticide applicator license (Category 36) for chemical controls. Home Improvement Contractor registration is required for contracts >$1,000. Safety protocols include PPE (ANSI Z87.1 glasses, Level A4+ gloves, ASTM F2413 boots, chainsaw chaps, hearing protection >85 dB), first aid certification, and daily equipment inspections. Hazardous plants like poison ivy, giant hogweed, and wild parsnip require barrier creams, full body protection, and immediate washing (Tecnu or Dawn within 2 hours). Liability insurance (1M per occurrence, 2M aggregate), environmental impairment coverage, and workers' compensation are mandatory. For standards and compliance, contact: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3864
Website: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services

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

Pembroke's climate (USDA Zone 6b) features cold winters and warm summers, with optimal plant removal in fall/winter (Oct-Mar) when invasive species are dormant and wildlife activity is reduced. Early spring (Mar-Apr) is suitable before nesting and vernal pool activity (March-June), but caution is needed during Nor'easters. Late spring/early summer (May-June) allows for targeted removal, but avoid disturbing nesting birds (March-Aug) and vernal pools. Herbicide applications are most effective at 60-85°F, with no rain forecast for 24-48 hours and wind speeds <10 mph. Wildlife protection includes mandatory surveys and 100-foot buffers for active nests. For climate and wildlife guidance, consult NWS Boston/Norton and MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

Post-Removal Site Restoration, Soil Amendment & Native Species Establishment

Restoring sites after plant removal in Pembroke begins with soil testing through the UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory to assess pH (5.5-6.5 typical; lime to 6.5-7.0), nutrients, and organic matter (5-10% target). Amendments include compost (1-3 inches into top 6-8 inches), lime, and decompaction as needed. Immediate stabilization uses annual ryegrass or winter rye (germinates in 5-7 days), with permanent native plantings such as witch hazel, lowbush blueberry, swamp milkweed, little bluestem, and bayberry, depending on site type. Mulching (2-3 inch depth) and erosion control blankets are used on slopes >15%. Monitoring and maintenance for 1-2 growing seasons ensure >80% native cover and no invasive regrowth. For restoration support, contact: Pembroke Planning Board
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1425
Website: Pembroke Planning Board

Stormwater Management & Erosion Control During Plant Removal Operations in Compliance with Pembroke's MS4 Program

Compliance with the Clean Water Act and MassDEP Stormwater Standards is required for plant removal disturbing >1,000 sq ft of soil. Erosion controls such as silt fences, straw wattles, and inlet protection devices must be installed, and equipment staged 50-100 feet from storm drains or water bodies. Daily cleanup prevents plant debris from entering stormwater systems. Long-term, native plant establishment improves infiltration and water quality, supporting MS4 goals. Regular inspections and photographic documentation are required, with repairs made within 24-48 hours of any control failure. For MS4 compliance, contact: Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1430
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works

Utility Coordination & Infrastructure Protection for Safe Plant Removal Operations

Before any excavation or root removal, Pembroke requires notification to Dig Safe (811) at least 48 hours in advance (72 hours recommended). Utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer, telecom) are marked and must be respected—hand-digging is mandatory within 18 inches of markings. Overhead power lines require a 10-foot minimum clearance. Specialized techniques, such as selective root pruning and shallow stump grinding (12-18 inches near utilities), protect infrastructure. All work near municipal infrastructure may require permits and final inspection. For utility coordination, contact: Pembroke Highway & Tree Department
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3132
Website: Pembroke Highway & Tree Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Pembroke, MA?

Pembroke’s neighborhoods each present unique plant community characteristics and environmental sensitivities. Historic centers feature mature oak, maple, and hemlock canopies, with moderate invasive pressure (buckthorn, bittersweet). Newer developments may have more ornamental exotics and young plantings, with light to moderate invasive presence. Wetland-adjacent areas (e.g., near Oldham Pond, Furnace Pond) require Conservation Commission permits and buffer compliance. Zone II wellhead protection areas impose chemical restrictions. Infrastructure complexity varies: older neighborhoods have narrow streets and overhead utilities, while newer areas may have underground services. Community standards are shaped by HOA guidelines, historic district requirements, and property value considerations. Restoration opportunities include woodland understory enhancement, pollinator gardens, and integration with municipal green infrastructure and MA Audubon programs.

Pembroke Municipal Ordinances for Plant Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Pembroke regulates plant removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption. Permitted hours are typically 7:00 AM-7:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday work often restricted before 9:00 AM or prohibited. Noise limits are generally 50-60 dB at the property line in residential zones, with exceptions for emergency work. Commercial operators must register with the Town Clerk, hold Home Improvement Contractor registration for contracts >$1,000, and maintain insurance (1M/2M GL, workers’ compensation, environmental impairment liability). Traffic control, public notification, and right-of-way permits are required for work on public property. Environmental compliance includes proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, and daily cleanup. For ordinance details, contact: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3864
Website: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services