Pembroke Pruning Services

Our Pruning Process

Contact Pembroke's Department of Public Works for Public Tree Permits & Pruning Debris Disposal

Pruning or removing any tree within Pembroke’s public ways requires advance approval from the Pembroke Department of Public Works. Notice must be given 7-14 days before work begins, and significant projects may require a public hearing. Emergency authorizations are available for hazardous situations. Municipal tree permits are required for all public trees and for private trees exceeding 6-8 inches DBH; heritage tree designations and replacement requirements may apply. Parkway and right-of-way trees, as well as those in Historic Districts, are subject to additional review. For debris disposal, yard waste is accepted April–November in biodegradable paper bags only (no plastic, per MassDEP), and brush must be bundled in 4-foot lengths. The Transfer Station requires permits and fees; municipal chipping and mulching services may be available. For more information, contact:

Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-5762
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works

Understanding ANSI A300 Pruning Standards & Tree Health Assessment Requirements in Pembroke

All structural tree work in Pembroke must be performed by an ISA Certified Arborist and comply with ANSI A300 standards. This includes the three-cut method for branches >2 inches in diameter and prohibits topping, flush cuts, lion’s tailing, and over-thinning. Tree health assessments must evaluate structural integrity, hazard risks (such as dead branches, co-dominant stems, decay, or included bark), and identify disease or pest issues, often in consultation with UMass Extension. Species-specific timing is critical: oaks are pruned only during the dormant season (Nov-March) to prevent oak wilt, maples and elms during dormancy, and flowering trees after bloom. Certification and ongoing education are required for arborists, and specialized credentials may be needed for risk assessment or municipal work.

Massachusetts Conservation Commission Requirements for Pruning Near Waterways & Protected Areas

Tree work near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, rivers, or ponds in Pembroke is regulated under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Permits such as a Notice of Intent (NOI) or Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) are required for activities within buffer zones (25-100 feet). Environmental assessments must address soil stability, water quality, and root zone protection, with erosion controls and proper debris staging to prevent runoff. Seasonal restrictions protect nesting wildlife (March–August), and cavity trees are evaluated for bat and bird habitat. Coordination with the Pembroke Conservation Commission is essential:

Pembroke Conservation Commission
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3844
Website: Pembroke Conservation Commission

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Professional Standards in Pembroke

Pembroke enforces tree protection ordinances that set permit thresholds for both private (6-8 inches DBH) and public trees, with special provisions for heritage or landmark trees. Applications are reviewed by the Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services and may require coordination with the Planning Board and utility companies for line clearance. Emergency protocols exist for storm damage, and public notification is required for significant public tree work. Violations are subject to correction procedures and possible penalties. Commercial contractors must carry 1M minimum general liability insurance, workers compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. For more details, contact:

Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3864
Website: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services

Seasonal Pruning Calendar, Wildlife Protection & Species-Specific Timing for Pembroke's Climate Zone 6b

Pembroke’s climate (USDA Zone 6b) shapes the optimal timing for tree pruning. Late winter/early spring (Feb–March) is best for most species, while post-flowering (May–June) is reserved for spring bloomers. Summer pruning is limited to emergency hazard removal to avoid stress, and winter (Dec–Feb) is ideal for oaks and structural work. Disease management is critical: oak wilt prevention prohibits oak pruning April–Oct, Dutch elm disease requires dormant season work, and emerald ash borer management is coordinated with state guidelines. Wildlife protection mandates nesting bird surveys March–August and visual inspections for active nests or dens. Tool sanitation with 70% isopropyl alcohol or 10% bleach solution between trees is required to prevent disease spread. Weather conditions, such as drought or excessive heat (>90°F), must be considered before scheduling work.

Safety Regulations, Insurance Requirements & Utility Coordination for Pruning Operations in Pembroke

All pruning operations must comply with ANSI Z133.1 Safety Standards, including the use of PPE (hard hats, eye/face protection, chainsaw chaps, and fall protection for heights >6 feet). Equipment must be inspected daily, and aerial lift operations must meet OSHA requirements. Electrical safety is paramount: maintain a 10 feet minimum distance from power lines (higher for voltages above 50kV), and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near utilities. Contractors must carry 1M minimum general liability insurance (2M aggregate recommended), environmental impairment coverage, workers compensation, and professional liability. Utility coordination is required before work near overhead or underground lines. For municipal contracts, bonding may be necessary. For more information, contact:

Pembroke Highway & Tree Department
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-5762
Website: Pembroke Highway & Tree Department

Integrated Pest Management & Disease Prevention Through Proper Pruning in Pembroke

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Pembroke emphasizes the removal of diseased wood, selective thinning for air circulation, and sanitation to reduce pest habitat. Structural pruning helps prevent storm damage and limits entry points for pathogens. Tools must be disinfected between trees using 70% isopropyl alcohol or 10% bleach solution (1:9), especially in areas with oak wilt or Dutch elm disease. Post-pruning inspections (at 30 days and seasonally) help identify secondary issues, with complex cases referred to UMass Extension. Municipal programs coordinate disease monitoring and reporting, including mandatory notification for emerald ash borer or Asian longhorned beetle outbreaks. Participation in regional forest health initiatives and early detection networks is encouraged.

Post-Pruning Debris Management & Massachusetts Organic Waste Requirements

Massachusetts prohibits wood waste in household trash, requiring participation in municipal yard waste programs (April–Nov). Only biodegradable paper bags are accepted, and brush must be bundled in 4-foot lengths. On-site chipping and mulch utilization are encouraged, while valuable species may be sent to sawmills or biomass facilities. Diseased material (oak wilt, Dutch elm disease) must be removed immediately and may require landfill disposal or quarantine, coordinated with the MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. Prompt cleanup protects storm drains and public safety. For local standards, contact:

Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-5762
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works

Protecting Pembroke's Urban Forest Through Sustainable Pruning & Community Stewardship

Sustainable pruning in Pembroke supports tree longevity, reduces disease transmission, and enhances storm resilience. Municipal goals include achieving 30-40% canopy coverage, increasing species diversity, and supporting climate adaptation through carbon sequestration and urban heat island reduction. Community involvement is vital: volunteer workshops, citizen science tree inventories, and partnerships with environmental organizations foster stewardship. Long-term planning addresses succession for aging trees, climate adaptation, and integration with green infrastructure. Arbor Day celebrations and educational outreach further promote urban forest health. For more on community programs, visit:

Town of Pembroke – Official Website
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3844
Website: Town of Pembroke – Official Website

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Pembroke, MA?

Pembroke’s neighborhoods each present unique tree care considerations. In the Center Historic District, mature oaks and maples dominate, with heritage designations and strict architectural review. North Pembroke features mixed-age stands and higher utility line density, requiring careful line clearance. Bryantville and Hobomock have significant wetland buffers, necessitating Conservation Commission permits and wildlife surveys. East Pembroke and Pembroke Pines face stormwater management challenges and MS4 requirements. Across all areas, regulatory complexity may include HOA rules, conservation easements, and permit timelines. Community engagement and stewardship are strong, with residents participating in tree planting and maintenance programs. For neighborhood-specific guidance, contact:

Pembroke Planning Board
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3844
Website: Pembroke Planning Board

Pembroke Municipal Ordinances for Pruning Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Equipment operation in Pembroke is regulated: typical hours are 7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM weekends, with Sunday work often restricted before 9:00 AM or prohibited (verify local bylaws). Noise and decibel limits apply, and special event schedules may affect work hours. Commercial tree services must register with the Town Clerk, obtain a business license, and, for contracts over $1,000, register as a Home Improvement Contractor per MA law. Insurance requirements include 1M minimum general liability, workers compensation, and professional liability. Safety protocols mandate traffic control, ANSI Z133 compliance, and public notification. Environmental compliance covers debris containment, vehicle maintenance, and waste documentation, coordinated with MassDEP and local ordinances. For more information, contact:

Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-5762
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works