Bedford Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Proper brush disposal in Bedford is managed through seasonal curbside collection and the Transfer Station. From April to November, residents may set out yard waste in biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per MassDEP. Brush bundles must not exceed 4-foot lengths, 50 lbs, and must be tied with biodegradable twine. The Transfer Station accepts brush with a valid permit and applicable fees. Municipal chipping programs, coordinated by the Department of Public Works, offer on-site chipping during peak spring and fall periods, with mulch sometimes available for residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants. Never place brush in household trash or dispose of it in the street or storm drains, as this can result in MS4 violations and penalties. For more information or to schedule chipping, contact:
Bedford Department of Public Works
314 Great Road, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-7605
Official Website: Bedford Department of Public Works

Bedford Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning in Bedford is subject to strict regulations and may be restricted or prohibited depending on local ordinances. Where permitted, burning is typically allowed only during designated windows and always requires a daily permit from the Fire Department. Residents must comply with MassDEP air quality standards. Safety requirements include maintaining a 50-150 feet setback from structures, constant supervision, and a water source on hand. Only brush may be burned—leaves, construction debris, and plastics are prohibited. Burning is not allowed during high winds, drought, or red flag warnings as issued by NWS Boston/Norton or Albany. For rural properties, maintain a defensible space of 30-100 feet around structures. Always verify current regulations and obtain permits from:
Bedford Fire Department
55 Great Road, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-7262
Official Website: Bedford Fire Department

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

Bedford’s landscape, shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, supports a mix of 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. Hazardous vegetation like poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. For health concerns, contact:
  Bedford Board of Health
  12 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
  Phone: (781) 275-6507
  Official Website: Bedford Board of Health

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

Brush removal near wetlands, vernal pools, streams, and ponds in Bedford 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 buffer zones. Erosion control is critical, especially on glacial till or clay slopes, using silt fences or erosion blankets. Wildlife protection mandates nesting bird surveys from April to August, with special attention during May–June. Inspections for active dens or bat roosts are required, and seasonal restrictions may apply for migratory or vernal pool species. Selective removal should preserve native habitat features. For permitting and guidance, contact:
Bedford Conservation Commission
10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-6211
Official Website: Bedford Conservation Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Bedford requires adherence to 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. Before any excavation or stump removal, contact Dig Safe 811 at least 48 hours (preferably 72 hours) in advance; maintain a 10 feet minimum distance from overhead power lines. Liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate), workers compensation, and bonding are required for commercial operators. For utility coordination and safety, consult:
Bedford Department of Public Works
314 Great Road, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-7605
Official Website: Bedford Department of Public Works

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

Bedford’s USDA Zone 6a climate 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 saturated soils. Red flag warnings and droughts require burning restrictions. Wildlife surveys are mandatory April–August, especially for protected species. For wildlife coordination, contact:
  Bedford Conservation Commission
  10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
  Phone: (781) 275-6211
  Official Website: Bedford Conservation Commission

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to comply with the Clean Water Act and Bedford’s MS4 permit. Erosion control is essential on glacial till/clay soils—use mulching, erosion blankets, and native grass seeding. Protect storm drains from sediment and debris, following MassDEP Stormwater Standards. Restore sites with native shrubs and grasses adapted to local soils. Monitor for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, bittersweet) for 1-2 years and maintain restored areas. Herbicide use requires a licensed applicator per MA Dept of Agricultural Resources. For environmental compliance, contact:
Bedford Department of Public Works
314 Great Road, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-7605
Official Website: Bedford Department of Public Works

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Bedford

Severe weather events in Bedford, such as Nor’easters, hurricanes, and ice storms, require coordinated storm debris management. The town issues emergency collection schedules and may open temporary drop-off sites. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place items curbside without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares. Coordination with the Department of Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments ensures public safety. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage may be necessary. Traffic control, barricades, and utility coordination are implemented for hazardous conditions. For emergency updates and procedures, contact:
Bedford Police Department
2 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-1212
Official Website: Bedford Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Bedford, MA?

Bedford’s neighborhoods each present unique vegetation and infrastructure considerations. Historic districts and mature neighborhoods often have dense buckthorn and bittersweet, while newer developments face less invasive pressure. Wetland proximity in areas like Great Road and North Road requires Conservation Commission permits and careful restoration. Neighborhoods such as Old Billerica Road and Page Road have glacial till/clay soils, affecting equipment access and erosion control. Narrow streets and mature tree canopies in older areas may limit machinery, while planned communities may have HOA or deed restrictions. Disposal logistics vary—some areas have direct curbside access, while others rely on the Transfer Station. For neighborhood-specific guidance, contact:
Bedford Planning Department
10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-1548
Official Website: Bedford Planning Department

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

Bedford enforces municipal ordinances for brush removal equipment operation. Standard hours are 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 limits and public safety protocols (traffic control, pedestrian notification) are required. Commercial operators must hold a business license, Home Improvement Contractor registration for contracts over $1,000 (per MA law), and insurance (1M minimum general liability, 2M aggregate). Certification (ISA Arborist) and bonding may be required for municipal contracts. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, with penalties for violations. For ordinance details, contact:
Bedford Code Enforcement
10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: (781) 275-7446
Official Website: Bedford Code Enforcement