Dennis Hedging Services

Our Hedging Process

Contact Dennis's Department of Public Works for Hedge Trimming Debris & Brush Disposal

Proper disposal of hedge trimmings and brush in Dennis is essential for environmental compliance and community cleanliness. The Town provides seasonal yard waste collection, typically from April-November, requiring residents to bundle branches in 4-foot lengths and keep bundles under 50 pounds. Only biodegradable paper bags or loose piles are accepted—no plastic bags—in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. For large hedge renovation projects, the Transfer Station accepts bulk yard waste, but a resident permit or sticker is required, and fees may apply. Always separate organic hedge clippings from inorganic debris such as wire or plastic. Never place trimmings in streets, gutters, or storm drains, as this violates MS4 stormwater regulations. For more information, contact:
Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: Dennis Department of Public Works

Understanding Hedge Selection for Dennis's Glacial Till & Sandy Coastal Plains & Climate Zone 6b

Selecting the right hedge species for Dennis requires understanding local soils—glacial till, sandy outwash, rocky shallow, and marine clay—with typically acidic pH (5.5-6.5). The USDA Web Soil Survey provides detailed mapping for site-specific recommendations. Environmental factors such as winter de-icing salt, coastal winds, urban heat, shade, deer pressure, and summer droughts all influence plant success. Recommended species for Dennis include:

• Native/Adapted: inkberry holly, winterberry, bayberry, chokeberry, viburnum, native azalea
• Salt-Tolerant: rugosa rose, juniper, bayberry, sumac
• Shade-Tolerant: American yew, rhododendron, mountain laurel, leucothoe
• Drought-Resistant: sumac, bearberry, juniper, native roses
• Cold-Hardy: rugosa rose, juniper, privet alternatives (Zones 5b-6a) Avoid invasive species such as Japanese barberry, burning bush, autumn olive, multiflora rose, privet, and buckthorn. For invasive species guidance, consult the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

Dennis Conservation Commission Requirements for Hedge Work Near Protected Areas

Hedge installation, removal, or renovation near wetlands, streams, or vernal pools in Dennis is regulated under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). The Dennis Conservation Commission must be consulted for any work within 25-50+ feet buffer zones of protected areas. Use native species to support habitat and prevent erosion, and implement erosion control during all phases of work. Seasonal restrictions apply to protect wildlife, especially during nesting (March-August) and vernal pool activity (March-June). For habitat value assessments or endangered species concerns, coordinate with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. For permitting and compliance, contact:
Dennis Conservation Commission
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6123
Website: Dennis Conservation Commission

Property Lines, Rights-of-Way & Sightline Rules for Hedges in Dennis

Dennis zoning ordinances require hedges to be set back 3-10 feet from property lines, with maximum heights of 6-8 feet in front yards (side and rear yard limits may vary). At intersections and driveways, maintain clear sight triangles of 30-50 feet for safety. Major landscape installations may require permits and must comply with utility easements and rights-of-way. Hedges must not obstruct sidewalks, fire hydrants, signage, or utility access, and must allow for ADA accessibility. For questions about compliance, permits, or reporting violations, contact:
Dennis Building Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6159
Website: Dennis Building Department

Safe Pruning Standards, Wildlife Protection & Seasonal Timing in Dennis

Professional hedge care in Dennis follows ANSI A300 pruning standards to ensure plant health and safety. Use proper cutting techniques, maintain sanitized tools, and schedule structural pruning in late winter. For spring-flowering species (lilac, forsythia), prune after bloom. Avoid topping or excessive thinning. Safety is paramount: always use PPE (eye and hearing protection), follow power tool and ladder safety, and be mindful of electrical hazards. Monitor for pests and diseases using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and consult the UMass Extension Plant Clinic for diagnosis. For complex pruning, hire an ISA Certified Arborist. Chemical treatments require a MA pesticide applicator license and adherence to all safety and insurance requirements.

Managing Hedge Waste Under Massachusetts Organic Waste Management Requirements

Massachusetts prohibits hedge clippings and yard waste from household trash and landfills, requiring participation in municipal collection or proper composting. Only healthy, non-invasive trimmings are suitable for home composting, which must be sited 10-20 feet from property lines and water sources to prevent odors and pests. Invasive species (Japanese barberry, burning bush, buckthorn, privet) and diseased materials require containment and certified disposal at regional facilities. For large projects, use municipal or regional composting services. Commercial operations must comply with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection regulations. For local disposal guidelines, contact:
Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: Dennis Department of Public Works

Stormwater Protection During Hedge Work in Compliance with Dennis's MS4 Program

Dennis participates in the MS4 program under the Clean Water Act and Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21). All hedge work must prevent debris from entering storm drains, in line with MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards. Best management practices include staging debris away from pavement, using erosion control for installations or large-scale pruning, and protecting nearby water bodies. For questions about stormwater compliance, coordinate with:
Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: Dennis Department of Public Works

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Dennis, MA?

Dennis encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique environmental and regulatory considerations. In East Dennis and Dennis Village, glacial till and sandy soils, moderate salt exposure, and historic district reviews shape hedge choices. South Dennis and West Dennis face higher wind and salt from coastal proximity, requiring salt-tolerant species and attention to drainage. Dennis Port and Swan Pond areas have marine clay and higher water tables, necessitating careful species selection and compliance with Conservation Commission buffer zones. Old Bass River Road and Mayfair neighborhoods feature mixed soils, utility lines, and HOA guidelines. Across all areas, infrastructure such as sidewalks, traffic patterns, and emergency access must be considered, along with privacy, noise buffering, and seasonal maintenance needs. For zoning and planning questions, contact:
Dennis Planning Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6119
Website: Dennis Planning Department

Dennis Municipal Ordinances for Hedge Trimmer Operation, Noise & Commercial Service Standards

Dennis enforces specific hours for hedge trimming: 7:00 AM-7:00 PM on weekdays, 8:00 AM-6:00 PM on Saturdays, and limited or prohibited hours on Sundays (verify with local bylaws). All work must comply with local noise ordinances. Commercial hedge services require a business license, contractor registration, and proof of insurance. Neighbor notification may be required for large projects. Weather conditions, such as Nor'easters or ice storms, may restrict operations for safety. For up-to-date regulations and licensing, contact:
Dennis Building Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6159
Website: Dennis Building Department