Dennis Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

Contact Dennis's Department of Public Works for Tree Permits & Municipal Oversight

Tree removal on public property or within public rights-of-way in Dennis is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest. The Dennis tree protection ordinance requires a permit for removal of any protected species measuring 6-8 inches DBH or larger, and for all trees 8+ inches on public property. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works (DPW), with a typical 7-14 days advance notice. Significant removals may trigger a public hearing, especially for heritage or landmark trees. The DPW oversees permit review, site inspections, and coordinates with other municipal departments for capital improvements and emergency response. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/307/Public-Works

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Dennis

Dennis mandates that all tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by an ISA Certified Arborist. For formal risk assessments, the arborist must also hold a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). These professionals evaluate structural integrity, disease, pest infestation (including winter moth, spongy moth, Asian longhorned beetle, and hemlock woolly adelgid), and storm damage. Documentation is required for permit applications. Additional certifications may include MA arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses, and crane operator credentials for large removals. Alternatives to removal, such as structural pruning, cabling, or integrated pest management (IPM), are considered where feasible. For questions about assessment standards or to verify arborist credentials, contact:

Dennis Building Department
485 Main Street, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6159
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/171/Building-Department

Massachusetts Environmental Protection Requirements for Tree Removal & Water Quality Protection

Tree removal activities in Dennis must comply with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) regulations, especially near sensitive areas such as streams, rivers, and wetlands. The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40) requires coordination with the Dennis Conservation Commission for any work within 25-50+ feet of resource areas. Wildlife protection measures include nesting bird surveys (March-August) and bat habitat assessments for large cavity trees. Erosion control, sediment barriers, and immediate site stabilization are required to protect water quality under the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21) and MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards. For environmental permitting and compliance, contact:

Dennis Conservation Commission
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6123
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/474/Conservation-Commission

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Dennis

Dennis’s tree protection ordinances establish clear thresholds for permits on both private and public property, with special designations for heritage and landmark trees based on diameter and species. The DPW and Planning Department coordinate reviews, especially for projects affecting public trees or requiring site alterations. Enforcement includes citation, stop-work orders, and penalties for unpermitted removals. Professional liability insurance (1M minimum, 2M aggregate recommended) and municipal bonding are required for contractors. Public tree management is supported by tree inventory mapping, systematic inspections, and community planting initiatives. For ordinance details or to report violations, contact:

Dennis Planning Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6119
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/294/Planning-Department

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Dennis

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Dennis Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures and ensures compliance with building codes. All work must adhere to OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R), including use of PPE, rigging certifications, and aerial lift safety. Utility coordination is required, with a Dig Safe (811) 48-hour notice for any root zone excavation and a 10-foot minimum approach distance for overhead power lines. Qualified line clearance arborists are mandatory near utilities. Public safety measures include street closure permits, traffic control, and coordination with the Dennis Police Department. For safety and utility coordination, contact:

Dennis Building Department
485 Main Street, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6159
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/171/Building-Department

Proper Tree Debris Disposal Through Dennis's Municipal Programs & Massachusetts Waste Requirements

Dennis supports responsible tree debris management in accordance with MassDEP waste reduction policies. Tree debris is prohibited in household trash and must be brought to the municipal transfer station or composting facility, where permits, fees, and load limits apply. Accepted materials include logs, brush, and stumps, with vehicle restrictions enforced. Seasonal brush pickup is available, typically limited to 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles. Storm debris may be collected through special programs, with separation of vegetative and construction waste. Wood waste is diverted for chipping, mulch, firewood, or sawmill use. For disposal guidelines and facility hours, contact:

Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/307/Public-Works

Protecting Dennis's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Dennis’s urban forest management emphasizes replacement of removed trees with native or climate-adapted species, typically 2-3 inch caliper at planting. Replacement locations, spacing, and establishment care are specified, with in-lieu fees possible if on-site planting is not feasible. Urban forest goals include 30-40% canopy coverage and species diversity (no more than 10% single species, 20% single genus). Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting, Arbor Day events, and citizen science. Long-term planning addresses succession, climate adaptation, and integration with sustainability initiatives. For stewardship opportunities and urban forest planning, contact:

Dennis Planning Department
685 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660
Phone: (508) 760-6119
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/294/Planning-Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Dennis, MA?

Tree removal services in Dennis address the unique needs of neighborhoods such as Dennis Port, East Dennis, South Dennis, West Dennis, Dennis Village, and Swan Pond. Each area features a distinct tree population, with heritage oaks and maples, varying age structures, and localized pest pressures (notably winter moth and Asian longhorned beetle). Regulatory complexity may increase in Historic Districts or areas with conservation easements, requiring additional reviews and public hearings. Infrastructure challenges include narrow roads, overhead utilities, and parking restrictions, especially in older or coastal neighborhoods. Environmental considerations such as wetlands proximity, steep slopes, and rare species habitats are also factored into permit and operational planning.

Dennis Municipal Ordinances for Tree Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Dennis enforces strict standards for commercial tree removal operations. Equipment use is typically limited to 7:00 AM-8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM-6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions and special event coordination as required by local bylaws. Contractors must hold a valid business license, municipal registration, and insurance (1M liability minimum, workers’ comp, property damage). Arborist certification and continuing education are verified. Work zones must be set up with proper traffic control, pedestrian safety measures, and right-of-way permits. Environmental compliance includes debris containment, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection regulations for waste and stormwater protection. For commercial standards and licensing, contact:

Dennis Department of Public Works
120 Theophilus F. Smith Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Phone: (508) 760-6220
Website: https://www.town.dennis.ma.us/307/Public-Works