Chatham Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Proper brush disposal in Chatham is managed through seasonal curbside collection (April–November) and the Transfer Station. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags—plastic is strictly prohibited per MassDEP—and bundle brush in sections no longer than 4-foot and under 50 lbs, tied with biodegradable twine. Brush and leaves must be separated, and no contaminants are allowed. The Transfer Station requires permits and may charge fees for drop-off. Municipal chipping programs are available seasonally; coordinate with the Department of Public Works for on-site chipping and mulch availability. Never place brush in the street or storm drains, as this can result in MS4 violations and penalties. For collection schedules and program details:
Chatham Department of Public Works
221 Crowell Road, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5155
Official Website: Chatham Department of Public Works

Chatham Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning in Chatham is subject to strict regulation, with many Massachusetts towns restricting or prohibiting the practice. Where permitted, burning is allowed only during designated seasonal windows and requires a daily permit from the Fire Department. Residents must maintain minimum setbacks of 50-150 feet from structures, supervise fires at all times, and have a water source (hose or extinguisher) on hand. Only brush is permitted—leaves, construction debris, and plastics are strictly prohibited. Burning may be canceled on high-risk days (high winds, low humidity, drought) per NWS Boston/Norton advisories. Always verify local ordinances and coordinate with MassDEP air quality. For permits and fire safety guidance:
Chatham Fire & Rescue Department
135 Depot Road, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-2324
Official Website: Chatham Fire & Rescue Department

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

Chatham’s landscape features glacial till and rocky soils, supporting both native and invasive brush. Common invasive species 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 set (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 best practices. Poison ivy, ticks (Lyme disease), and wild parsnip are common hazards; use protective clothing and follow Board of Health guidance.
  Chatham Board of Health
  261 George Ryder Road, Chatham, MA 02633
  Phone: (508) 945-2793
  Official Website: Chatham Board of Health

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

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, and other protected areas in Chatham 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. Erosion control measures—such as silt fences or erosion control blankets—are mandatory on slopes and glacial till/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 native habitat features and create brush piles for wildlife shelter. For permitting and guidance:
Chatham Conservation Commission
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5164
Official Website: Chatham Conservation Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Chatham requires adherence to 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). 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, and maintain a 10 feet minimum distance from overhead power lines. Commercial operators must carry general liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. Proof of Dig Safe compliance is mandatory for all projects.

Seasonal Timing, Wildlife Protection & Weather Coordination for Chatham's Climate Zone 7a

Chatham’s climate (USDA Zone 7a) and glacial till/clay soils require careful timing for brush removal. Optimal periods are:

• Winter (Dec–March): frozen ground minimizes soil compaction and wildlife disturbance
• Early Spring (March–April): after thaw, before nesting season
• Late Fall (Oct–Nov): after breeding, before freeze Avoid removal May–August to protect nesting birds and reduce fire risk. Monitor weather via NWS Boston/Norton or Albany; avoid work during high winds (>20-25 mph), saturated soils, or extreme heat (>90°F). Red flag warnings and drought conditions may trigger burning restrictions. Wildlife surveys are required before removal during peak breeding, and all encounters with protected species should be documented and reported to Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential to comply with Chatham’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. Erosion control is critical on glacial till/clay soils—use mulching, erosion control blankets, and native grass seeding. Protect storm drains from sediment and organic debris, and follow MassDEP Stormwater Standards. Restore sites with native MA shrubs and grasses adapted to local soils. Amend compacted soils with organic matter and decompact as needed. Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) for 1-2 years post-removal. Herbicide use requires a licensed applicator per MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. Coordinate with municipal environmental monitoring for ongoing compliance.
Chatham Community Development Department
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5169
Official Website: Chatham Community Development Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Chatham

Severe weather events—such as Nor’easters, hurricanes, and ice storms—require coordinated storm debris management. The Town issues emergency collection announcements and may extend yard waste hours or open temporary drop-off sites. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place items curbside without blocking streets or sidewalks. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares. Coordination with DPW, Police, and Fire is essential for traffic control and public safety. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage may be required. Report hazards such as downed power lines or gas leaks immediately. For emergency updates and procedures:
Chatham Police Department
249 George Ryder Road, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-1213
Official Website: Chatham Police Department
Chatham Public Notice & Updates
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5100
Official Website: Chatham Public Notice & Updates

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Chatham, MA?

Chatham’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation, environmental, and logistical considerations:

• Old Village & Historic Districts: mature tree canopy, extensive buckthorn/bittersweet, narrow streets, stone walls, Historic District requirements
• North Chatham: mix of native and invasive brush, proximity to wetlands, glacial till soils, utility density (overhead lines)
• South Chatham: sandy soils, newer developments with less invasive pressure, HOA and deed restrictions
• West Chatham: moderate brush density, some conservation easements, access to Transfer Station
• Chatham Port: wetland proximity, high water table, conservation buffer zones, equipment access challenges
• Stage Harbor & Oyster Pond: fire risk low, but sensitive habitats and water quality concerns
• Morris Island: conservation land adjacency, protected species habitat, limited access Municipal collection routes, chipping service availability, and restoration expectations vary by area. Always verify local requirements and coordinate with the appropriate municipal departments.

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

Chatham 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 local bylaws. Noise and decibel limits apply, especially near residential areas and during special events. Commercial operators must be licensed with the Town, registered as a Home Improvement Contractor for contracts over $1,000 (per MA law), and carry insurance (1M minimum general liability, 2M aggregate, workers compensation). All work zones require proper traffic control and pedestrian safety measures (ANSI Z133). Code Enforcement investigates violations, with penalties for non-compliance. For licensing and ordinance details:
Chatham Building Division
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: (508) 945-5168
Official Website: Chatham Building Division