Hudson Plant Removal Services

Our Plant Removal Process

Plant Removal and Debris Disposal Coordination with Hudson’s Department of Public Works

Plant removal in Hudson requires strict adherence to municipal debris management protocols. The Department of Public Works oversees weekly yard waste collection from April through November, with pickups scheduled every Thursday. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags or reusable bins (32-gallon maximum) for plant debris; plastic bags and branches over 4 inches in diameter are prohibited. All plant material must be placed curbside by 7:00 AM on collection day. For large-scale removals, a permit is required for curbside debris piles exceeding 2 cubic yards, with a $25 application fee and a 5-business-day review period. Proper separation of invasive species is mandated to prevent spread during disposal. Coordination with the department ensures compliance with Hudson’s MS4 stormwater permit and local ordinances.
Department of Public Works
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-9333
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Soil Series and Site Conditions Affecting Plant Removal in Hudson

Hudson’s landscape is dominated by Paxton fine sandy loam and Charlton-Hollis-Rock outcrop complexes, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are moderately to well-drained but often stony, with pH values typically ranging from 5.2 to 6.0. Plant removal projects must account for shallow bedrock in upland areas and seasonal high water tables in low-lying sites. Mechanical extraction of woody plants should avoid excessive soil disturbance, especially where compaction or erosion risk is high. For sites with poor drainage, removal work is best scheduled during late spring or early fall when soil moisture is moderate. Soil testing is recommended prior to replanting or restoration, with services available through UMass Extension for $15-25 per sample. Key considerations include:

• Stony soils requiring specialized extraction equipment
• pH adjustment with lime for restoration if below 6.0
• Erosion control measures on slopes or near water bodies

Environmental Compliance: Wetland Buffers and Stormwater Protection in Hudson

Plant removal near Hudson’s wetlands, brooks, and conservation lands is regulated under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and the federal Clean Water Act. A 25-foot no-disturbance buffer is enforced around all Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, with a 100-foot jurisdictional review zone. No plant removal or soil disturbance is permitted within these areas without a permit from the Conservation Commission. All debris must be kept out of storm drains to comply with Hudson’s MS4 permit, and silt fencing is required for removals within 50 feet of water bodies. Violations may result in fines up to $300 per day. For guidance on compliance and permit applications:
Conservation Commission
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2948
Official Website: Conservation Commission

Statewide stormwater requirements are administered by:
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Boston, MA
Official Website: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Equipment Operation Hours and Safety Standards for Plant Removal in Hudson

Hudson enforces municipal noise ordinances for all plant removal activities. Permitted equipment operation hours are:

• Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Sunday and holidays: Prohibited All powered equipment must be fitted with functional mufflers, and noise levels may not exceed 85 decibels at the property line. Operators working within 15 feet of public roads must deploy high-visibility warning signs and safety cones. Personal protective equipment is mandatory, including:
• ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses
• Hearing protection for equipment over 85 dB
• Steel-toed boots and cut-resistant gloves For removals near overhead utilities, maintain a 15-foot clearance and notify Dig Safe (811) at least 72 hours in advance. The Department of Public Works provides additional safety guidance for large or complex projects.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Hudson, MA?

• Downtown Hudson: Characterized by compact lots, mature street trees, and historic landscaping. Plant removal here often requires careful coordination due to narrow access and proximity to utilities.
• Brigham Hill: Features rocky upland soils and sloped terrain, necessitating specialized equipment for root extraction and erosion control during removals.
• Cranberry Lane Area: Known for larger lots and proximity to conservation land, with frequent wetland buffer considerations and seasonal high water tables.
• Assabet Village: Includes newer developments with engineered soils and stormwater infrastructure, requiring strict compliance with MS4 debris management protocols.
• Forestvale: Dense tree cover and variable drainage patterns present challenges for debris removal and site restoration, especially after storm events.
• Gates Pond Vicinity: Properties near the reservoir must observe strict 100-foot buffer zones and additional water quality protections during plant removal.
• River Road Corridor: Floodplain location and periodic high water require timing removals outside of peak runoff periods and adherence to wetland permitting requirements.