Burlington Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Burlington residents have several options for responsible brush disposal, with strict adherence to Massachusetts and local regulations. From April through November, curbside yard waste collection is available for brush bundled in biodegradable paper bags (no plastic, per MassDEP), with each bundle under 4-foot lengths and 50 lbs, tied with biodegradable twine. The Transfer Station accepts brush with proper permits and fees. Municipal chipping programs, coordinated by the Department of Public Works, offer on-site chipping during peak spring and fall seasons, and finished mulch may be available. Brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants. Never dispose of brush in the street or storm drains—keep it on private property until collection to avoid MS4 violations and penalties. For more information, contact: Burlington Public Works Department
25 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 270-1670
Website: Burlington Public Works Department

Burlington Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning in Burlington is subject to strict regulation, and many Massachusetts towns restrict or prohibit this practice. Residents must verify local ordinances and obtain daily permits from the Fire Department during the permitted season. Burning is only allowed under safe weather conditions and with approval from MassDEP for air quality. Safety requirements include:

• Minimum setbacks from structures (50-150 feet)
• Constant supervision and a water source (hose/extinguisher)
• Prohibited materials: leaves, construction debris, treated wood, rubber, plastics
• Site preparation and weather monitoring (check NWS Boston/Norton for red flag warnings)
• Immediate cancellation during high winds, low humidity, or drought Maintain defensible space (30-100 feet) around structures, especially in rural areas, and ensure emergency vehicle access. For permits and guidance, contact: Burlington Fire Department
  21 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
  Phone: (781) 270-1925
  Website: Burlington Fire Department

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

Burlington's landscape, shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, supports a mix of native and invasive brush species. Common invasive plants 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, sanitize equipment between sites, and dispose of viable seeds at a landfill (never compost or chip). Coordinate with Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and MA Dept of Agricultural Resources for best practices. Be aware of hazardous vegetation like poison ivy, ticks (Lyme disease), and wild parsnip. For health concerns, contact: Burlington Public Health Department
  61 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
  Phone: (781) 270-1955
  Website: Burlington Public Health Department

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

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, and ponds in Burlington is regulated under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Permits (NOI/RDA) are required for work within 25-100 feet of protected areas. Erosion control is critical, especially on glacial till or clay slopes, using silt fences or erosion control blankets. Wildlife protection mandates nesting bird surveys from April to August (peak in May-June) and checks for active dens or bat roosts. Seasonal restrictions may apply for migratory birds and vernal pool species. Selective removal should preserve valuable habitat features and create brush piles for wildlife shelter. For permitting and guidance, contact: Burlington Conservation Commission
29 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 270-1655
Website: Burlington Conservation Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Burlington 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 (ANSI Z133.1). Required PPE includes chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, eye/face protection, hearing protection (>85 dB), and steel-toed boots. Always coordinate with Dig Safe 811 at least 48 hours (preferably 72 hours) before excavation or stump removal, maintaining a 10 feet minimum distance from power lines. Commercial operators must carry general liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. For utility safety, contact: Burlington Engineering Division
25 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 270-1640
Website: Burlington Engineering Division

Seasonal Timing, Wildlife Protection & Weather Coordination for Burlington's Climate Zone 6a

Burlington's USDA Zone 6a climate and glacial till/clay soils require careful timing for brush removal. Optimal periods are winter (December–March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and wildlife disturbance, and early spring (March–April) before nesting season. Late fall (October–November) is also suitable. Avoid May–August due to nesting bird protection and increased fire risk. Monitor weather via NWS Boston/Norton or Albany:

• Avoid work above 20-25 mph winds
• Do not operate on saturated soils
• Monitor for heat stress (>90°F)
• Observe red flag warnings and drought advisories Wildlife surveys are mandatory April–August. Document and report protected species encounters to Mass Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential to comply with Burlington's MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. Key steps include:

• Erosion control for exposed glacial till/clay soils (mulch, blankets, silt fences)
• Protect storm drains from sediment and debris
• Reestablish native vegetation (oak, serviceberry, viburnum, blueberry) suited to local soils and climate
• Amend compacted soils with organic matter
• Temporary stabilization (mulching, seeding with native grasses)
• Daily cleanup to prevent debris migration Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) for 1-2 years and use licensed applicators for herbicide if needed, per MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. For stormwater standards, see MassDEP Stormwater Standards and coordinate with: Burlington Public Works Department
  25 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
  Phone: (781) 270-1670
  Website: Burlington Public Works Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Burlington

Severe weather events in Massachusetts, such as Nor'easters, hurricanes, and ice storms, require coordinated emergency response for brush and storm debris. 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 it curbside without blocking streets or sidewalks. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage may be required. Traffic control is managed by the Police Department, and utility companies assist with power line clearance. For emergency updates, contact: Burlington Police Department
45 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 272-1212
Website: Burlington Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Burlington, MA?

Burlington’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation, environmental, and infrastructure considerations. Established areas like Fox Hill and Pine Glen often have mature trees and higher invasive pressure (buckthorn, bittersweet), while newer developments such as Seven Springs face less invasive encroachment but may have HOA landscaping requirements. Proximity to wetlands or conservation land (e.g., Mill Pond, Mary Cummings Park) may require Conservation Commission permits and buffer zone compliance. Historic Districts may impose additional restrictions. Infrastructure varies: older neighborhoods have more overhead utilities and narrow streets, complicating equipment access, while glacial till/clay soils can cause rutting when wet. Disposal logistics depend on municipal collection routes and Transfer Station access. For parkland and open space, contact: Burlington Parks & Recreation Department
61 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 270-1695
Website: Burlington Parks & Recreation Department

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

Burlington 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 restrictions (often before 9:00 AM or prohibited—verify local bylaws). Noise and decibel limits apply, especially near residential areas. Commercial operators must be licensed with the Town Clerk, registered as Home Improvement Contractors for contracts over $1,000 (per MA law), and carry insurance (1M minimum general liability, 2M aggregate, workers compensation). Certification (ISA Arborist) and ANSI Z133 compliance are required. Work zones must be properly marked for pedestrian and traffic safety, and violations are subject to Code Enforcement action. For licensing and enforcement, contact: Burlington Building Department
29 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 270-1950
Website: Burlington Building Department