Plainville Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

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

Proper weed debris and organic waste management in Plainville is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November, requiring biodegradable paper bags only—no plastic—in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles. The Transfer Station operates on set hours, with resident permits and fees required; accepted materials are listed on the town website. 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, gutters, or storm drains, as this violates MS4 regulations.

Plainville Department of Public Works
29 West Bacon Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 695-6871
Website: Plainville Department of Public Works

Understanding Common Weeds & IPM Strategies for Plainville's Glacial Till & Rocky New England Terrain

Plainville’s glacial till and rocky soils (pH 5.5-6.5) support a range of weed species. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelions, plantain, white clover, and ground ivy, while grassy weeds such as crabgrass and annual bluegrass thrive in disturbed areas. Invasive species like Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife are high priorities for removal. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies emphasize:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, use balanced fertilization (see UMass Soil Testing Lab), core aeration, and overseeding with fine fescues
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, mulching (2-4 inches), landscape fabric, flame weeding
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, use competitive plantings, apply corn gluten meal
• Chemical controls: last resort, spot treat at minimum effective rates Soil compaction and drainage issues require cultural integration, and prevention focuses on soil health and proper irrigation. For more, consult UMass Extension.

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

Weed control in Plainville must comply with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21) requirements. Key measures include:

• Establishing 25-100 foot buffer zones near streams, rivers, and wetlands to prevent pesticide runoff
• Using low-drift nozzles and formulations to protect groundwater and surface water, especially near municipal wells and Zone II wellhead protection areas
• Avoiding applications during pollinator bloom periods and coordinating with Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for rare species protection
• Minimizing soil disturbance and immediately revegetating bare spots to prevent erosion
• Consulting the Conservation Commission for permits near wetlands or vernal pools, as required by the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40)

Plainville Conservation Commission
190 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 576-8464
Website: Plainville Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Plainville

All weed control professionals in Plainville 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) demand strict handling and storage. IPM plans and environmental impact assessments are required for large-scale applications. Commercial operators must maintain 1M per occurrence and 2M aggregate liability insurance, environmental impairment coverage, and workers compensation. Detailed application logs, adverse incident reporting, and customer notification records are required for compliance and municipal monitoring. Coordinate with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 for federal standards.

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

The Plainville Board of Health enforces strict public safety protocols for pesticide use. Advance public notification is required 24-48 hours before application, with clear signage. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are mandated from property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites like schools and daycares. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas. Safety measures include:

• Barriers and notification to protect children, pets, and sensitive individuals
• Emergency contact procedures (poison control: 1-800-222-1222)
• Use of PPE: respirators, chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection
• Equipment calibration and spill prevention
• Post-application monitoring for effectiveness and non-target impacts

Plainville Board of Health
152 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 576-8440
Website: Plainville Board of Health

Seasonal Weed Control Calendar & Weather Timing for Plainville's Climate Zone 6b

Plainville’s climate (USDA Zone 6b) shapes weed control timing. In early spring, apply pre-emergent crabgrass control when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F (late March–early April; see National Weather Service Boston/Norton). Late spring (May–June) is optimal for broadleaf weed control during active growth. Summer (July–August) focuses on spot treatments and nutsedge management, with increased irrigation during dry spells. Fall (September–October) targets perennial weeds and pre-emergent control for winter annuals. Avoid applications before predicted rainfall (24-48 hour window), and observe wind speed limits (under 10 mph for liquid, 15 mph for granular). Consider microclimates, wildlife breeding seasons, and pollinator bloom periods when scheduling.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Plainville

Stormwater management is critical for protecting local water bodies under the Clean Water Act and MS4 permit requirements. Best management practices include:

• Mixing and loading chemicals at least 100 feet from storm drains and water bodies
• Using secondary containment for storage
• Immediate spill response with absorbent materials and barriers
• Designated equipment wash areas with proper drainage
• Reducing chemical load through IPM to protect Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, and local rivers
• Integrating with municipal stormwater programs and MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards Enforcement includes reporting, inspections, and timely correction of violations. Coordinate with EPA NPDES and local environmental officers for compliance.

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

Massachusetts regulations require safe storage and disposal of weed control products. Store chemicals in locked, ventilated areas at least 100 feet from wells, with temperature control (40-90°F). Inventory should follow FIFO (first in, first out) and be secured against unauthorized access. Handling protocols include:

• PPE selection per label and SDS
• Dedicated mixing areas to prevent spills
• Triple-rinse sprayers and containers, with documentation
• Emergency eye wash and shower facilities for commercial sites
• Proper labeling of all containers Disposal must use triple-rinse protocols and hazardous waste events—never drains, soil, or trash. For emergencies, follow first aid and spill containment procedures, and contact poison control (1-800-222-1222) or local emergency services.

Plainville Fire Department
194 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 695-5252
Website: Plainville Fire Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Plainville, MA?

Plainville’s neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges. Areas with glacial till soils (e.g., South Street corridor) have poor drainage, while sandy outwash zones (near the Wrentham line) drain quickly and may require more frequent irrigation. Rocky shallow soils are common in the northwest, limiting root depth and affecting weed populations. Marine clay is found in low-lying areas, influencing drainage and salt exposure from winter de-icing. Regulatory sensitivities include proximity to wetlands (buffer zones per Wetlands Protection Act), Zone II wellhead protection, and school zones. Invasive species like Japanese knotweed and garlic mustard are concentrated near conservation land and stream corridors. Historic Districts and HOAs may have additional landscape standards.

Plainville Water & Sewer Operations
194 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 695-6871
Website: Plainville Water & Sewer Operations

Plainville Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Plainville enforces municipal ordinances for equipment operation and commercial applicator standards. Permitted operating 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 during holidays. Commercial operators must hold a valid business license, contractor registration, and insurance (1M minimum liability, workers compensation, environmental impairment). Applicators must verify MDAR certification (Category 36). Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, public notification (24-48 hours), and right-of-way permits. Environmental compliance covers material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and waste documentation, coordinated with MassDEP and local ordinances.

Plainville Building Department
152 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: (508) 576-8440
Website: Plainville Building Department