Gas Leaf Blower Ban in US States and Cities

With the increasing concerns about noise pollution, air quality and the impact on the environment, several states and cities in the United States have enacted bans or regulations prohibiting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

Here we have a detailed overview of the current landscape, including relevant acts, laws, bans, counters regulations and information on where to appeal or dispute these regulations.

Note: We’re updating this page as more cities approve/disapprove of blower bans or discuss about it.

Alabama

There are no statewide bans on gas-powered leaf blowers in Alabama. However, specific cities like Daphne have implemented noise ordinances that indirectly impact the use of these devices. 

In Daphne, the Noise Ordinance 2012-35, restricts noise levels during certain hours, which could negatively impact businesses that use gas-powered equipment. Mountain Brook also has limits on lawn equipment operation hours, while no direct prohibitions are in effect.

  • Birmingham has begun drafting the ordinance.
  • Daphne – Restrictions to sound level of 80 dB during 7 am to 10 am from 50 feet.
  • Montgomery country – Complete prohibition from July 1, 2025
  • Mountain Brook – Prohibition on lawn equipment for commercial purposes within a Residential district, between the hours of 6:00 pm and 7:00 am weekdays (8 am weekends).
  • Wilmette – Operating a gas or gasoline powered lawn or leaf-blower, is prohibited except from October 1 to November 30 and from April 1 to April 30 of each calendar year. Wilmette Village Code, Sec. 16-115

Alaska

Gas leaf blowers are currently not subject to any state-level restrictions in Alaska. Anchorage, on the other hand, has provided guidelines for environmental issues. The Sweep Guidelines Letter 2022 lays out these guidelines, however, these are merely suggestions and do not constitute a prohibition.

  • Anchorage: The Sweep Guidelines Letter 2022 provides recommendations on leaf blower usage to help protect air quality.

Arizona

Arizona took some regulatory actions concerning gas-powered leaf blowers. Guidelines and restrictions have been established by the local governments of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Goodyear. One such example is the Maricopa Leaf Blower Restriction Ordinance, even though there is no state-wide ban.

  • Goodyear: The city has implemented specific codes to regulate the use of leaf blowers to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
  • Phoenix: The Maricopa Leaf Blower Restriction Ordinance limits the use of leaf blowers on high pollution days.
  • Scottsdale: Restrictions are in place regarding the operation times and locations of gas-powered leaf blowers. Specific details are regulated under AZ Statute 49-457.01, which addresses air quality and usage restrictions.

Arkansas

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not completely banned in Arkansas. However, local laws in urban cities like Fayetteville, Pine Bluff, and Conway might force limitations. Benton’s Nuisance Ordinance 2021, for instance, addresses noise and environmental issues that may have an indirect impact on gas blower use.

  • Benton: Proposed Nuisance Ordinance 2021.
  • Conway: The O-09-55 Ordinance regulates noise levels and the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, including leaf blowers.
  • Fayetteville: The city enforces Burn Permits and Alternatives regulations, which could indirectly affect leaf blower usage by restricting certain activities that contribute to air pollution.
  • Pine Bluff: Local ordinances from the Code of Ordinances impact the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, emphasizing noise and pollution control.

California

Many cities in California have enacted restrictions or bans on gas-powered leaf blowers, making it the nation’s leading state in this regard. Ordinances that restrict or prohibit the use of these devices have been enacted in numerous cities, including Los Angeles, Pleasanton, Glendale, and others. 

The laws are very different all over the state, and some cities have programs to help people switch to electric blowers. Specifically, Palo Alto, South Pasadena, and Los Altos all have strict prohibitions.

  • Alameda: The city has enacted a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers as part of its broader environmental goals to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
  • Atherton: The city has implemented an Electric Leaf Blower Program to encourage residents to switch from gas-powered to electric leaf blowers, offering rebates and other incentives.
  • Calistoga — Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited.
  • Cupertino: The city has a specific ordinance regulating the use of leaf blowers, including restrictions on gas-powered models to reduce noise and pollution.
  • City of Sonoma: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited.
  • Danville: Ongoing discussions and community input regarding the potential ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, reflecting broader concerns about environmental sustainability.
  • Emeryville: Enforced a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers to align with the city’s environmental policies.
  • Encinitas: Implemented a Leaf Blower Ordinance that restricts the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, promoting the transition to electric alternatives to reduce environmental impact.
  • Glendale: The city is considering a similar ban to align with state environmental goals.
  • Hidden Hills: The city has regulations restricting the use of leaf blowers to ensure minimal environmental impact.
  • Irvine: The city has implemented a Lawn Equipment Ban that includes restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers as part of its environmental sustainability initiatives. 
  • Los Angeles: Bans gas-powered leaf blowers in many areas to reduce noise and air pollution.
  • Los Altos: Prohibited the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in residential areas to address noise pollution and environmental concerns. This ordinance is part of a broader effort to transition to quieter and more sustainable alternatives, such as electric leaf blowers.
  • Lafayette: The city’s Environmental Task Force is focused on reducing noise and air pollution by promoting the use of electric leaf blowers and considering restrictions on gas-powered models.
  • Menlo Park – Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited.
  • Novato: The city has established guidelines and restrictions on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers to minimize environmental and noise pollution.
  • Pasadena – Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited.
  • Pleasanton: Enforced a citywide gas-powered leaf blower ban effective June 1, 2024.
  • Palos Verdes Estates: Enforced restrictions on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, with specific regulations on operation times and locations to minimize noise pollution.
  • Redondo Beach: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • South Pasadena: Prohibited gas-powered leaf blowers to promote sustainability.
  • San Anselmo: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • Santa Clara County: Aimed at reducing noise and environmental impact, the county’s ordinance bans the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in certain areas. The Sierra Club supported this measure as part of its broader environmental advocacy efforts.
  • Santa Cruz: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • St. Helena: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • Westlake Village: Enforced a Zero Emission Equipment Ordinance that promotes the use of electric or battery-powered lawn equipment, including leaf blowers, to reduce environmental impact.
  • Town of Yountville – bans gas powered leaf blowers effective July 1, 2021.

Colorado

Gas-powered lawn equipment, such as leaf blowers, have raised environmental concerns in Colorado in recent years. Cities like Denver and Boulder have taken steps to restrict the use of these devices in public areas and government operations, however, the state has not imposed a complete ban. 

The state’s regulatory focus is primarily on the local level, with discussions ongoing in various municipalities. 

  • Aspen: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • Boulder: Considering a phased ban on gas leaf blowers due to noise and environmental concerns.
  • Castle Rock: Stage 1 fire ban limits the use of gas leaf blowers in fire-prone areas.
  • Denver: Restrictions on gas-powered lawn equipment in public spaces to reduce noise and pollution.
  • Statewide: Colorado bans state government use of gas-powered lawn equipment, promoting electric alternatives.
  • Statewide Regulations: Regulators limit the scope of the proposed statewide ban on gas lawn equipment.

Connecticut

A number of Connecticut cities, including Greenwich, Stamford, and Norwalk, have taken steps to regulate or prohibit gas-powered leaf blowers. Concerns about the impact on the environment and noise frequently motivate these actions. Another city with similar regulations is Westport.

  • Greenwich: Ordinance restricts gas blowers; police address noise complaints.
  • New Canaan: The Noise Ordinance restricts the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.
  • New Haven: Discussions on sensible restrictions for gas-powered leaf blowers due to environmental impact.
  • Norwalk: Ban on gas blowers with specific restrictions for landscapers.
  • Stamford: Code of Ordinances limits gas blower use during certain periods to reduce noise.
  • Westport: Leaf blower ordinance regulates gas-powered blower usage, promoting quieter alternatives.
  • West Hartford: Leafblower noise is restricted to weekdays 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., and Sundays 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Statewide: Various cities, including Norwalk and Stamford, are imposing stricter regulations on gas blowers.

Delaware

Although individual cities are taking action, Delaware has not implemented a statewide prohibition. As part of its larger environmental strategy, Lewes, for instance, has banned gas-powered landscaping tools like leaf blowers.

  • Delaware County: Various boroughs are considering bans on gas blowers to address community concerns.
  • Lewes: The city council voted to ban gas-powered landscaping equipment to promote environmental sustainability. 
  • Rehoboth Beach: Moves towards a ban on gas-powered tools, including leaf blowers, are currently under discussion.
  • Delaware has also delayed the ban on gas-powered lawn equipment due to pushback, with ongoing discussions.
  • General Ordinance: Delaware’s local ordinances are increasingly targeting gas-powered blowers, reflecting a broader environmental push.

Florida

A few cities in Florida, which is known for its warm climate and lush landscapes, have banned or regulated gas-powered leaf blowers. Bans on both noise and air pollution have been implemented in Miami Beach, Naples, and North Bay Village. As environmental awareness grows, additional cities may follow the regulations.

  • Fort Lauderdale: A working group has been established to explore the impacts of gas-powered leaf blowers and potential regulations. No Ban yet.
  • Jacksonville: Environmental quality rules control the use of gas-powered leaf blowers as part of noise and air pollution control strategies. 
  • Miami Beach: Full enforcement of the ban on gasoline-powered leaf blowers has begun, with penalties for violations.
  • Miami-Dade County: Public discourse and enforcement efforts focus on the ban of gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Naples: The Noise Ordinance restricts the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.
  • North Bay Village: A ban on gas-powered leaf blowers will start on September 1, 2024, aimed at reducing noise pollution.
  • Palm Beach: The town has moved forward with discussions on banning gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Sanibel: The city council has moved forward with a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, continuing the trend of environmental conservation.
  • Southwest Florida: Stricter regulations on noisy leaf blowers, including gas-powered models, are being enforced as part of environmental initiatives.
  • St. Petersburg: The city is considering regulations as part of a broader state initiative to address environmental concerns.
  • Southwest Florida Landscapers: Pushback from landscaping businesses regarding the new regulations on gas-powered leaf blowers is notable.
  • Tampa Bay Area: The impact of eliminating gas-powered equipment is being monitored, with local news reporting on benefits and challenges.
  • Winter Park: The city voted to ban gas-powered leaf blowers, offering rebates for transitioning to electric models.
  • Other Florida cities that have adopted electric leaf blower ordinances:
    • Coral Gables
    • Key Biscayne
    • Key West
    • South Miami

Georgia

Legislative actions have been taken in Georgia to stop local governments from banning gas-powered leaf blowers. The State Bill Prohibiting Local Regulations on Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers was passed to protect the use of these devices throughout the state. However, some cities like Savannah and Winter Park have expressed interest in local regulations. 

  • Athens: The city has considered regulating leaf blowers to reduce noise pollution, although statewide legislation limits local control.
  • Savannah: Local discussions are ongoing about cracking down on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, with particular focus on their impact in residential areas.
  • Statewide: The Georgia State Legislature passed a bill prohibiting local governments from regulating or banning gas-powered leaf blowers, protecting their use statewide.

Hawaii

Hawaii, known for its environmental initiatives, has considered various regulations regarding gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly in tourist areas. As a sign of the state’s larger concerns regarding the environment, Honolulu has enacted ordinances restricting their use.

  • Honolulu: The Honolulu City Council has been actively discussing the potential ban of gas-powered leaf blowers to address noise and environmental impacts in urban areas. 
  • Statewide (Hawaii): Senate Bill 54 was introduced to ban the sale and use of gas-powered leaf blowers statewide, reflecting growing environmental and noise concerns.
  • Statewide Discussion: Hawaii’s environmental councils have weighed the pros and cons of banning gas-powered leaf blowers, emphasizing sustainability and community well-being.

Idaho

Gas-powered leaf blowers are generally allowed in Idaho, and the state has not enacted any statewide restrictions on them. Any local noise ordinances that could have an indirect impact on the use of businesses in Idaho should be kept on their radar.

  • Statewide: There are no specific statewide bans on gas-powered leaf blowers, but discussions in Boise and other cities may lead to future regulations.

Illinois

Gas-powered leaf blowers have been regulated or banned in several Illinois cities, including Winnetka, Wilmette, and Evanston. To reduce noise and air pollution, Evanston, for instance, has implemented seasonal bans that restrict their use during specific months.

  • Evanston: The city has implemented a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, though there is a possibility the ban may be lifted this spring.
  • Lake Bluff: The village is considering a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers to address noise and environmental concerns.
  • Oak Park: Gas-powered leaf blowers not allowed between June 1–Sept. 30. Total ban scheduled for June 2025.
  • River Forest: The village of River Forest has also been part of the broader discussions and regulations concerning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Wilmette: The village enforces strict seasonal restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers, limiting their use to specific periods each year.
  • Winnetka: New regulations have taken effect in the North Shore towns, including Winnetka, which restrict the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Westmont: Local regulations have been introduced to reduce the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, aligning with broader environmental goals.
  • Illinois General Assembly: House Bill 4805, introduced in the Illinois General Assembly, aims to regulate or limit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers statewide.

Indiana 

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been banned or significantly restricted in Indiana. Though local noise ordinances may apply in some areas, the use of these devices remains largely unregulated at the state level. 

  • Statewide (Indiana): No national or statewide ban on buying or using gas-powered leaf blowers, leaving regulations to local jurisdictions.
  • Statewide Discussion: Bans on gas-powered leaf blowers are growing nationwide, with increasing pushback from the landscaping industry in Indiana.
  • Public Opinion: Columnists urge Indiana residents to consider environmental impacts and reduce the use of gas-powered leaf blowers during fall.

Iowa 

Leaf blowers powered by gas are not banned in Iowa. These devices are widely used throughout Iowa without significant restrictions because the state has not moved toward comprehensive regulation. 

  • Statewide: Iowa has not introduced significant regulations on gas-powered leaf blowers. These devices are widely used without restrictions at the state level.

Kansas 

Although gas-powered leaf blowers have not been banned statewide in Kansas, some cities, like Wichita, have considered regulations to address noise and environmental concerns. The state’s methodology remains generally restricted.

  • Wichita: The city is exploring potential bans or restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers due to noise and environmental concerns.

Kentucky

Gas-powered leaf blowers are currently not subject to any statewide restrictions or bans in Kentucky. Cities in Kentucky have not yet moved towards regulating these devices, and organizations can continue their uses without explicit limitations. 

  • Ashland: Local ordinance restricts noise pollution, potentially affecting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Lexington: Voted to restrict and eventually ban gas-powered leaf blowers, with ongoing compliance issues during the first summer of enforcement.

Louisiana 

Gas leaf blowers are not subject to any state-level restrictions in Louisiana. The state allows these devices to be used in all of its cities, and there are no significant local restrictions or regulations.

Maine

Gas-powered leaf blowers are beginning to be considered for regulation or ban in Maine cities like South Portland. In South Portland, noise and environmental issues are being discussed, but no final decisions have been made. 

  • South Portland: The city is considering banning or restricting gas-powered leaf blowers as part of broader environmental and noise reduction policies.

Maryland 

Some counties and cities in Maryland have taken steps to ban gas-powered leaf blowers. For instance, Montgomery County has enacted legislation to gradually phase out these devices, and Baltimore and Annapolis have introduced similar discussions. 

  • Annapolis: Ongoing discussions about potential bans on gas-powered leaf blowers to address noise and environmental concerns.
  • Baltimore: A bill has been introduced to ban gas-powered leaf blowers as part of the city’s environmental strategy.
  • Hyattsville: All leaf blower equipment must be electric
  • Montgomery County: A ban on the sale of gas-powered leaf blowers is set to begin on July 1, 2024, with a complete prohibition by 2025.
  • University Park: banned gas-powered leaf blowers.
  • Statewide: Maryland counties, including Montgomery, are actively moving towards banning gas-powered leaf blowers, emphasizing environmental benefits.
  • General Discussion: Maryland cities are promoting electric alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers, highlighting environmental and health benefits.

Massachusetts

One of the states actively regulating gas-powered leaf blowers is Massachusetts. Lexington, Brookline, Newton, and Swampscott have implemented or are considering bans. Some cities impose seasonal restrictions and gradually phase out gas-powered equipment. 

  • Arlington: prohibited June 1 to Sept. 14 and Dec 31 to March 14, and will be prohibited for commercial use in March 2025.
  • Belmont: The town is phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers to meet its environmental sustainability goals.
  • Brookline: Regulates commercial landscapers’ use of gas-powered leaf blowers, emphasizing compliance with environmental standards.
  • Cambridge: Plans to enforce a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers earlier than initially proposed, reflecting the city’s environmental priorities.
  • Concord: Passed an article to prohibit the use of leaf blowers under specific circumstances to align with environmental goals.
  • Framingham: Considering restrictions on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers to align with broader environmental policies.
  • Lexington: Enforces seasonal restrictions as part of its initiative to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers gradually.
  • Lincoln: Implemented a bylaw to restrict the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in designated areas to minimize environmental impact. They are only allowed to be used from October 1 to December 20 and from March 20 to May 31.
  • Marblehead: Local ordinances regulate the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Limited restrictions for now.
  • Medford: Enforced specific regulations as part of its city council’s environmental initiatives, focusing on noise reduction.
  • Nantucket: Has local regulations concerning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, emphasizing environmental preservation on the island.
  • Newton: Enforces specific regulations on leaf blowers to address community concerns about noise pollution and environmental impact.
  • Somerville: Enforces seasonal and year-round restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers to reduce noise pollution.
  • Swampscott: Implements a summer ban on gas-powered leaf blowers to reduce noise pollution during peak seasons.
  • Waltham: Local ordinances regulate the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly in residential areas, to address noise concerns.
  • Winchester: Introduced restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers to address community concerns about noise and air quality.
  • Statewide Discussion: Massachusetts is seeing a rise in gas-powered leaf blower bans across various cities, reflecting growing environmental awareness.

Michigan

Michigan has seen a couple of cities make strides towards banning gas-powered leaf blowers. Detroit and Ann Arbor are among the cities where local governments are considering or have enacted regulations. 

  • Ann Arbor: The city has implemented a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers as part of its environmental strategy. Violations will cause $100 for the first offense and $250 for the next offense. Gas leaf blowers can still be used from October through May but will be completely prohibited by January 2028 under a four-year phaseout.
  • East Grand Rapids: Commissioners are looking for community feedback.
  • Michigan City: The city is banning gas-powered leaf blowers to reduce noise and environmental impact, aligning with other regional efforts.
  • Sterling Heights: City council discussion lowering lawn mowing and impact of blowers.

Minnesota

Minnesota has not forced a statewide ban, but cities like Minneapolis and Saint Paul are discussing the regulation of gas-powered leaf blowers. Other cities like Duluth, Bloomington, and others are also considering similar measures. 

Cities: Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Duluth, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Woodbury, Maple Grove, St. Paul, Burnsville, Blaine, Lakeville, Minnetonka, Apple Valley, Edina, St. Cloud, Eden Prairie, Coon Rapids, Burnsville, Louis Park. 

Bill HF1715 requires all garden equipment to be electric. It is a proposed ban but not yet passed.

Mississippi

Gas-powered leaf blowers are currently subject to no state regulations in Mississippi. Their use has not been significantly restricted or outlawed by the local municipalities. 

Missouri

Gas leaf blowers have not been banned across the state of Missouri. However, discussions at the city level, especially in larger metropolitan regions, could prompt future regulations. 

Clayton: The Board of Aldermen in Clayton is discussing a possible ban on all gas-powered lawn equipment.

Montana

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not prohibited in Montana. Their use is permitted by the state without any particular local restrictions. 

Nebraska

Nebraska has not moved towards prohibiting all gas leaf blowers at the state level. Additionally, these devices are not subject to significant restrictions in Nebraska’s cities.

Nevada

Nevada, known for its dry climate, doesn’t currently force statewide bans on gas-powered leaf blowers. However, local municipalities may have noise ordinances that indirectly affect their use. 

Boulder City Council: City officials are recommending against any ban.

Las Vegas: $325 vouchers to local commercial landscaping businesses that operate in the county, to swap out their gas blowers to battery-powered ones from Home Depot.

New Hampshire 

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been banned statewide in New Hampshire. Without significant local regulations, the devices are commonly used across the state. 

New Jersey

Gas-powered leaf blowers are increasingly subject to regulation in New Jersey, particularly in suburban areas. Bans have been enacted or are under consideration in a number of cities, including Maplewood and Larchmont. 

  • Maplewood: The township has regulations on the use of leaf blowers, including restrictions on gas-powered models to reduce noise and environmental impact. Ordinance 3057-22
  • Montclair: The town has implemented a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, focusing on reducing noise pollution and improving community well-being. Landscapers are challenging the ban in court.
  • Princeton: Seasonal ban on leaf blower that are gas powered.
  • South Orange: Seasonal ban on leaf blower that are gas powered.
  • General Discussion: New Jersey is part of the broader U.S. trend where bans on gasoline-powered leaf blowers are growing, with increasing resistance from the landscaping industry.

New Mexico

New Mexico has no statewide restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers. Local municipalities are yet to introduce significant regulations, though discussions may arise in cities. 

New York

Gas-powered leaf blowers have been banned in several cities and towns across New York State. In cities like New York City, discussions are ongoing about regulating these devices more strictly. Seasonal restrictions exist in Bedford and Pleasantville. 

  • Bedford: Implements a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers to mitigate noise pollution, particularly during specific months of the year.Prohibited under the noise ordinance, effective May 1, 2023, with the exception of a six-week period in the Fall from October 26 to December 7. Violations are subject to fines $250 to $1,000.
  • East Hampton: No leaf blower of any type may be operated on a Sunday between May 20 and September 20 of any year.
  • Hastings-on-Hudson: Are legal ONLY from Oct 15-Dec 31.
  • Larchmont: The village enforces strict regulations on the use of leaf blowers, including limitations on gas-powered models to reduce noise and environmental impact. Effective March 13, 2023, electric leaf blowers are permitted for spring clean-up from March 15 through April 30 and fall clean-up October 15 to December 15, with temporary allowances.
  • Mamaroneck: Enforces regulations on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers to address noise and environmental concerns in the community. Banned from June 1 through September 30. Permitted from October 1 to May 31. Monday-Friday: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm; Saturday, Sunday, & legal holidays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
  • Mount Vernon: The city has restrictions on the use of gas-powered leaf and lawn blowers to reduce noise pollution and improve air quality. All landscapers must register with the City and each must display their registration number on their vehicles.
  • New Castle: The town’s ordinance regulates the use of leaf blowers, including gas-powered ones, with a focus on environmental protection. June 1 –September 30 – No Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers (GLBs). October 1 –May 31 – Gas powered Leaf Blowers are permitted
  • North Haven: Ban is in effect annually for a period of 6 months, from May 1st to October 31st.
  • Nyack: The town has enacted a leaf blower law that includes restrictions on the use of gas-powered models to promote sustainability. $500 for first offense, and increases with successive offenses. Gasoline-powered leaf blowers may be used only between March 15 through May 15, and September 15 through December 15. They may only be used from 8:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday; 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays; and 12 noon until 5:00 p.m. on Sundays and legal holidays.
  • Pleasantville: Implements a seasonal ban on fuel-powered leaf blowers, restricting their use from May 15th to September 30th annually. There are Quiet hours on all motorized outdoor equipment.
  • Rye Brook: Ban in effect annually between May 1st to September 30.
  • Southampton: Public hearing and discussions.
  • Town of New Castle: Gas Leaf Blowers Are Not Permitted June 1 – September 30
  • Tarrytown: The operation of a gasoline-powered leaf and garden blower is prohibited from June 15 through September 15 of each year and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays during the period September 16 through June 14 each year.
  • Village of Croton-on-Hudson: Hours of operations limited. Gas-powered leaf blowers are banned in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson during the summer and winter months (June 1 – August 31, and January 1 – March 31).
  • The Village of Ossining: Use of a gas-powered leaf blower can only be used on parcels greater than a ½ acre, and only between the following dates: March 1 and June 1, OR September 15 and December 15.
  • White plains: Permitted only during the fall clean up season of October 15 through December 15.
  • Other municipalities – View this sheet to see all municipalities in NY (updated yearly). Provided to Maplescapes with due thanks from Filippine (Healthy Yards)

North Carolina

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been subject to statewide regulations in North Carolina. Despite the state’s cities discussing potential measures, there are currently no significant bans in place. 

General: Many cities, including several in North Carolina, have enacted general noise ordinances that ban the use of noisy machines, like construction equipment and leaf blowers, during late evening and early-morning hours.

North Dakota 

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not subject to any statewide prohibitions or restrictions in North Dakota. These devices are allowed across the state without explicit regulations. 

Ohio

Gas-powered leaf blowers have been the subject of some city-level discussions in Ohio, but no significant state-level bans have been enacted. There aren’t many restrictions on how these devices can be used by businesses. 

Oklahoma

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been outlawed in Oklahoma on a state-by-state basis. State cities have also not taken any steps to regulate these devices.

  • Maplewood Online: There is ongoing discussion and interest in Oklahoma regarding the potential for leaf blower bans, particularly gas-powered models, reflecting broader national trends.

Oregon

Oregon is actively discussing and implementing bans on gas-powered leaf blowers in various cities. With strict regulations and assistance for businesses affected by these changes, cities like Portland, Ashland, and others are leading the way.

  • Eugene: Quiet Clean Eugene is seeking volunteers and the movement is gaining traction.
  • Lake Oswego: The city is actively addressing community concerns regarding the use of leaf blowers, including potential restrictions on gas-powered models.
  • Multnomah County: The county offers support to small businesses impacted by Portland’s gas-powered leaf blower ban, helping them transition to more sustainable alternatives.
  • Portland: The city has regulations restricting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in residential zones. To reduce noise pollution, the operation is limited to specific hours, between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following morning, seven days a week.

Pennsylvania

While gas-powered leaf blowers have not been banned statewide in Pennsylvania, regulations are being considered by cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The discussions are still ongoing, but no concrete actions have been taken yet. 

  • Swarthmore: Banned gas-powered leaf blowers to reduce noise and environmental impact.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island doesn’t have a statewide restriction on gas-powered leaf blowers. However, local municipalities may consider regulations later on, especially in urban regions.

There is a proposal to ban gas-powered leaf blower. The state has passed a law to fund an incentive program for transitioning from gas-fueled leaf blowers to electric ones. You can view all incentive programs here.

South Carolina 

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been subject to statewide regulation in South Carolina. These devices remain widely used across the state without significant local restrictions. 

  • Leaf Blower Regulation: South Carolina has ongoing discussions and potential considerations for regulating gas-powered leaf blowers, similar to other regions addressing noise and environmental concerns.
  • Charleston: City council is moving by example of using gas powered leaf blowers themselves.
  • Mount Pleasent: Discussing the regulations but no ban yet.

South Dakota 

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not banned statewide in South Dakota. The devices are widely used without much regulation in the state. 

Tennessee

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not subject to significant regulations or statewide bans in Tennessee. Although there are noise ordinances in place, there are no specific prohibitions. 

Texas

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not banned completely in Texas. Discussions may arise in urban regions; however, these devices are widely used currently without significant restrictions. 

  • Dallas: Senate Bill 1017 bans use of engine based fuel source for landscaping. The city of Dallas could pay you $200 for buying electric lawn equipment.

Utah 

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not banned in Utah. Although there have been discussions, no significant restrictions have been imposed by Utah cities. 

The Utah Air Quality Board is considering banning a few equipment but only on bad air days.

Vermont 

Gas-powered Leaf blowers have not been banned in Vermont. These devices have not yet been significantly regulated by local municipalities.

  • Burlington: Some cities in Vermont are considering or have implemented bans on loud gas-powered leaf blowers, reflecting concerns over noise pollution and environmental impact. These discussions align with broader trends seen across the country. The rule restricts the noise of electric blowers to 65 decibels. Gas-powered blowers operate at about 90 decibels. can only use leaf blowers from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Virginia 

Some cities in Verginia are discussing the regulation of gas-powered leaf blowers, especially in Northern Virginia. However, neither the state nor the city have enacted any significant restrictions.

The state has allowed local governments to form rules about bans for their regions.

Washington

Cities like Seattle and Tacoma considering or implementing regulations on gas-powered leaf blowers. These cities are focusing on reducing noise pollution and environmental impact.

The whole state is also considering ban and serious enforcement starting 2026

  • Clyde Hill: Discussing the bans. The current Clyde Hill Municipal Code 8.10.030(G) places restrictions on the operation of leaf blowers, but some residents believe it’s time for stricter measures.
  • Seattle: Approved the ban for contractors by 2025 and homeowners by 2027.

Washington, DC/ District of Columbia

  • District of Columbia: The Leaf Blower Regulation Amendment Act of 2018 prohibits the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers.

West Virginia 

Gas-powered leaf blowers are currently not subject to significant regulations or statewide bans in West Virginia. There are minimal restrictions on these devices throughout the state. 

Wisconsin 

Although discussions may arise in larger cities like Milwaukee and Madison, a statewide ban on gas-powered leaf blowers has not been introduced in Wisconsin. Currently, these devices are widely used without specific restrictions. 

Local bans outlawed! State and local governments in Wisconsin would not be allowed to ban gas-powered vehicles, snow blowers, lawnmowers and other machines.

Wyoming 

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been banned or regulated in any way in Wyoming. The state allows their use, and municipalities have not moved towards specific regulation.

More Resources

The United States has a wide range of regulatory landscapes regarding gas-powered leaf blowers. Businesses that use gas-powered leaf blowers should stay up to date on local laws and be ready to adapt to the changing laws.

Ellie Kerns, a Climate and Clean Energy Advocate has published an interactive map which displays which cities, states, and companies have implemented policies to reduce pollution and noise from gas-powered lawn equipment.

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