Hudson Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

Hudson’s Department of Public Works Yard Waste Collection Procedures and Compliance

Green waste disposal in Hudson is managed through the Department of Public Works, which oversees weekly curbside collection from April through November. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags or rigid containers (32-gallon maximum) for leaves, grass clippings, and brush under 4 feet in length. Plastic bags and branches over 4 inches in diameter are strictly prohibited. Collection occurs every Thursday, and materials must be placed curbside by 7:00 AM. For larger volumes or off-schedule disposal, the Hudson Transfer Station accepts green waste during posted hours. Adherence to these procedures is required under municipal ordinance to prevent stormwater contamination and maintain public health standards. For detailed collection schedules and accepted materials:
Hudson Department of Public Works
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-9333
Official Website: Hudson Department of Public Works

Soil Series and Drainage Considerations for Green Waste in Hudson

Hudson’s predominant soils, including the Charlton-Hollis-Rock outcrop complex and Paxton fine sandy loam, are characterized by moderate to poor drainage and a pH range of 5.2 to 6.0. These conditions can lead to seasonal waterlogging, especially in low-lying areas and near the Assabet River. When disposing of green waste, it is essential to avoid placing materials in drainage swales or within 25 feet of wetlands to prevent nutrient runoff and soil compaction. The USDA Web Soil Survey provides detailed mapping for property-specific soil management. For soil testing and amendment recommendations, consult UMass Extension. Key soil management practices include:

• Compost incorporation: 2-3 inches tilled to 6-inch depth
• Lime application for pH below 6.0
• Maintain buffer zones: 25 feet from wetlands, 50 feet from water bodies

Environmental Compliance: State and Federal Regulations Affecting Hudson Green Waste Disposal

Green waste disposal in Hudson must comply with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and the Clean Water Act, which prohibit the discharge of yard debris into storm drains or water bodies. The town operates under an MS4 permit administered by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, requiring strict separation of organic waste from municipal stormwater systems. Residents must maintain a 25-foot no-disturbance buffer from wetlands and avoid fertilizer or compost application within 50 feet of streams. Violations may result in fines or remediation orders. For regulatory guidance:
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Boston, MA
Official Website: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Seasonal Timing and Weather Considerations for Green Waste Management in Hudson

Hudson is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, with average last frost dates in late April and first frost in mid-October. The optimal window for green waste disposal is April 15 through November 30, aligning with the town’s collection schedule. Avoid placing yard waste curbside during winter months, as snow and ice impede collection and can cause material to enter storm drains. Monitor local weather forecasts through the National Weather Service Boston/Norton Office to plan disposal before heavy rain events, which increase the risk of nutrient runoff. Key timing guidelines include:

• Spring cleanup: April 15 – May 31
• Summer maintenance: June – August (weekly collection)
• Fall leaf disposal: October 1 – November 30
• No collection December – March

Safety Standards and Equipment Protocols for Green Waste Handling in Hudson

Proper safety protocols are required for all green waste handling activities in Hudson. Equipment operation is permitted:

• Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday and holidays: Prohibited Operators must use commercial-grade chippers and mowers with functioning mufflers, and all personnel are required to wear ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses, hearing protection for noise above 85 dB, and cut-resistant gloves when handling brush. Maintain a 15-foot clearance from overhead utilities and a 25-foot buffer from wetlands during all operations. For questions on safety standards or reporting concerns:
  Hudson Department of Public Works
  78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
  Phone: (978) 562-9333
  Official Website: Hudson Department of Public Works

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Hudson, MA?

• Downtown Hudson: Features compact lots and mature street trees, requiring careful green waste containment to prevent debris from entering storm drains and to comply with historic district guidelines.
• Brigham Hill: Characterized by sloped terrain and rocky soils, necessitating erosion control measures and buffer maintenance near conservation land.
• Cranberry Lane Area: Proximity to wetlands and the Assabet River means strict adherence to 25-foot buffer zones and careful scheduling to avoid runoff during heavy rains.
• Forestvale: Larger lots with dense tree cover generate high volumes of leaf and brush waste, requiring frequent collection and attention to container limits.
• Gates Pond Vicinity: Located near a public water supply, this area enforces additional restrictions on fertilizer and compost use within 50 feet of the pond.
• Tripps Pond Neighborhood: Floodplain location demands elevated care in debris placement and timing, especially during spring thaw and fall rains.
• Assabet Village: Newer development with engineered soils and HOA guidelines, including specific container types and collection day compliance.