Dennis Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

Contact Dennis's Department of Public Works for Weed Debris Disposal & Organic Waste Management

Proper weed debris and organic waste management in Dennis is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November; only biodegradable paper bags are accepted, as required by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles. The Transfer Station requires resident permits, has set operating hours, and accepts specific materials for a fee. Invasive plants like Japanese knotweed and garlic mustard must be bagged and landfilled, not composted, to prevent spread. Chemical containers require triple-rinse and documentation, with disposal at hazardous waste events. Never dispose of debris in streets or storm drains, as this violates MS4 regulations.

Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: Dennis Department of Public Works

Understanding Common Weeds & IPM Strategies for Dennis's Glacial Till & Sandy Coastal Plains

Dennis landscapes are shaped by glacial till and sandy coastal plains, resulting in variable drainage and acidic soils (pH 5.5-6.5). Common weeds include dandelions, plantain, white clover, crabgrass, foxtail, Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) prioritizes:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, use balanced fertilization (see UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory), core aeration, and overseeding with fine fescues.
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, mulching (2-4 inches), landscape fabric, and flame weeding.
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, competitive plantings, and use corn gluten meal.
• Chemical controls: only as a last resort, with spot treatments and minimum effective rates. Soil compaction and organic matter content influence weed management; consult UMass Extension for prevention strategies.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Requirements for Weed Control & Water Quality Protection

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) enforces strict requirements to protect water quality during weed control. Maintain buffer zones of 25-100 feet near streams, rivers, and wetlands, and comply with the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21). Use low-drift nozzles and avoid applications near municipal wells or Zone II wellhead protection areas. Protect pollinators by restricting applications during bloom periods and coordinate with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for rare species. Minimize soil disturbance and revegetate bare spots promptly. Always consult the Conservation Commission for permits near wetlands or vernal pools, as required by the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40).

Dennis Conservation Commission
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6127
Website: Dennis Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Dennis

All commercial weed control in Dennis must comply with Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) regulations. Applicators require licensing in Category 36 (Turf and Ornamental Horticulture), with 10 contact hours of continuing education every three years. Federal EPA registration is mandatory for all products, and Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) require special handling and storage. Maintain detailed application logs, including date, weather, rates, and target species, and report adverse incidents to MDAR. Insurance requirements include 1M per occurrence and 2M aggregate for liability, plus environmental impairment coverage. Coordinate with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 for large-scale applications and environmental impact assessments.

Dennis Board of Health Guidelines for Pesticide Application & Public Safety Protection

The Dennis Board of Health oversees public safety during weed control. Advance public notification is required 24-48 hours before application, with clear signage. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are enforced near property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites like schools and daycares. Observe re-entry intervals of 6-48 hours based on product labels. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas. Protect children, pets, and sensitive individuals with barriers and notification. Emergency procedures for exposure include contacting poison control (1-800-222-1222) and municipal emergency services. Use proper PPE, calibrate equipment, and prevent drift with low-drift nozzles and weather monitoring. Post-application, assess effectiveness and monitor for non-target impacts.

Dennis Board of Health
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6158
Website: Dennis Health Department

Seasonal Weed Control Calendar & Weather Timing for Dennis's Climate Zone 7a

Dennis falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, with coastal influences and variable microclimates. Weed control timing is critical:

• Early Spring: Apply pre-emergent for crabgrass at soil temps 50-55°F (late March–early April).
• Late Spring: Target broadleaf weeds during active growth (May–June).
• Summer: Spot-treat persistent weeds and manage nutsedge (July–August), increasing irrigation during dry spells.
• Fall: Control perennials (September–October) and apply pre-emergent for winter annuals. Avoid applications before rain (24-48 hours), when wind exceeds 10 mph (liquid) or 15 mph (granular), or above 90°F. Consider coastal fog, salt exposure, and vernal pool protection (March–June). Coordinate with National Weather Service Boston/Norton for local forecasts.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Dennis

Dennis is subject to MS4 permit requirements under the Clean Water Act, protecting Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, and local water bodies. Best management practices include:

• Mixing/loading chemicals 100 feet from storm drains or water bodies
• Using secondary containment for storage
• Immediate spill response with absorbent materials
• Designated equipment wash areas with proper drainage
• Reducing chemical load through IPM Coordinate with MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards and EPA NPDES programs. Large-scale applications require reporting and may be inspected by municipal officers. Violations must be corrected promptly to avoid penalties.

Safe Handling, Storage & Disposal of Weed Control Products Under Massachusetts Regulations

Store all weed control products in locked, ventilated areas at least 100 feet from wells or water supplies, with temperature control (40-90°F). Inventory should follow FIFO (first in, first out) and be secured against unauthorized access. PPE must be selected per product label and SDS. Mixing and loading should occur in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and equipment must be decontaminated between uses. Empty containers require triple-rinse and documentation, with disposal at hazardous waste events. Never dispose of chemicals in drains, soil, or trash. For emergencies, follow first aid protocols and contact poison control (1-800-222-1222) or local emergency services.

Dennis Fire & Rescue Department
883 Main Street, West Dennis, MA 02670
Phone: (508) 398-0363
Website: Dennis Fire & Rescue Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Dennis, MA?

Dennis encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique soil and environmental characteristics:

• Dennis Port: sandy outwash, excellent drainage, salt exposure from coastal winds
• East Dennis: glacial till, poor drainage, proximity to wetlands (buffer zones required)
• South Dennis: marine clay, moderate drainage, near Zone II wellhead protection areas
• West Dennis: sandy soils, salt spray, historic district landscaping standards
• Dennis Village: rocky shallow soils, limited depth, school zones with enhanced safety protocols
• Quivet Neck: conservation land, organic farming, drift prevention required
• Swan Pond Area: near water bodies, pH 5.5-6.5, invasive species concentrations Each area requires tailored weed management, considering property values, HOA covenants, and seasonal occupancy. Consult the Dennis Conservation Commission – Wetlands Rules & Regulations for site-specific requirements.

Dennis Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Dennis enforces strict ordinances for equipment operation and commercial weed control. Permitted hours are typically 7:00 AM–7:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions (often no operation before 9:00 AM). Noise and decibel limits apply, especially in residential areas and on holidays. Commercial applicators must register with the Town Clerk, maintain 1M minimum liability insurance, and verify MDAR Category 36 certification. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, and public notification (24-48 hours). Environmental compliance requires proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, and immediate cleanup of spills, with documentation per MassDEP and local ordinances.

Dennis Building Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6159
Website: Dennis Building Department

Dennis Water District
80 Old Bass River Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 398-3351
Website: Dennis Water District