Gas Leaf Blower Ban in US States and Cities

With increasing concerns about noise pollution, air quality and the environment, several states and cities in the United States have enacted bans or regulations prohibiting 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 them.

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 limits lawn equipment operation hours while no direct prohibitions are in effect.

  • Birmingham has begun drafting the ordinance.
  • Daphne – Restrictions to the sound level of 80 dB from 7 am to 10 am from 50 feet.
  • Montgomery country – Complete prohibition from July 1, 2025
  • Mountain Brook – Prohibition of lawn equipment for commercial purposes within a residential district between 6:00 pm and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays (8 a.m. on 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 recommends leaf blower usage to help protect air quality.

Arizona

Arizona took some regulatory actions concerning gas-powered leaf blowers. The local governments of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Goodyear established guidelines and restrictions. One example is the Maricopa Leaf Blower Restriction Ordinance, despite 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 regarding gas-powered leaf blowers’ operation times and locations are in place. Specific details are regulated under AZ Statute 49-457.01, which addresses air quality and usage restrictions.

Arkansas

Gas-powered leaf blowers are not entirely 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 indirectly impact gas blower use.

  • Benton: Proposed Nuisance Ordinance 2021.
  • Conway: The O-09-55 Ordinance regulates noise levels and 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 restricting or prohibiting these devices have been enacted in numerous cities, including Los Angeles, Pleasanton, and Glendale. 

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 banned 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 reflect 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 using 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: As part of its environmental sustainability initiatives, the city has implemented a Lawn Equipment Ban that includes restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers. 
  • Los Angeles: Ban gas-powered leaf blowers in many areas to reduce noise and air pollution.
  • Los Altos: This ordinance prohibits using gas-powered leaf blowers in residential areas to address noise pollution and environmental concerns. It 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 electric leaf blowers and considering restrictions on gas-powered models.
  • Menlo Park – Gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited.
  • Novato: The city has established guidelines and restrictions on using 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 using gas-powered leaf blowers, with specific operation times and location regulations 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: Aiming to reduce noise and environmental impact, the county’s ordinance bans using gas-powered leaf blowers in certain areas. The Sierra Club supported this measure in its broader environmental advocacy efforts.
  • Santa Cruz: Gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited
  • St. Helena: Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited
  • Westlake Village: Enforced a Zero Emission Equipment Ordinance that promotes using 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 are prohibited
  • Boulder: Considering a phased ban on gas leaf blowers due to noise and environmental concerns.
  • Castle Rock: Stage 1 fire ban limits using gas leaf blowers in fire-prone areas.
  • Denver: Restrict 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

Several 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 using gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
  • 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 specific periods to reduce noise.
  • Westport: Leaf blower ordinance regulates gas-powered blower usage, promoting quieter alternatives.
  • West Hartford: Leafblower noise is restricted to weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 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 to ban gas-powered tools, including leaf blowers, are 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 increasingly target gas-powered blowers, reflecting a broader environmental push.

Florida

A few cities in Florida, known for its warm climate and lush landscapes, have banned or regulated gas-powered leaf blowers. Bans on 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. There has been no ban yet.
  • Jacksonville: Environmental quality rules control using 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 using gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.
  • North Bay Village: To reduce noise pollution, gas-powered leaf blowers will be banned starting September 1, 2024.
  • 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, and local news reports on the 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 prevent 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, focusing 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. Honolulu has enacted ordinances restricting their use as a sign of the state’s more significant environmental concerns.

  • 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. Any local noise ordinances that could indirectly impact 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

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

  • Evanston: The city has implemented a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, though 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 are prohibited between June 1 and September 30. A total ban is scheduled for June 2025.
  • River Forest: The village of River Forest has also been involved in 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 yearly periods.
  • Winnetka: New regulations restricting gas-powered leaf blowers have taken effect in the North Shore towns, including Winnetka.
  • 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 unregulated, mainly 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 its cities, and no significant local restrictions or regulations exist.

Maine

Gas-powered leaf blowers are beginning to be considered for regulation or ban in Maine cities like South Portland. Noise and environmental issues are being discussed in South Portland, 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 phase out these devices gradually, and Baltimore and Annapolis have introduced similar discussions. 

  • Annapolis: Discussing potential bans on gas-powered leaf blowers to address noise and environmental concerns is ongoing.
  • 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 promote 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 prohibiting leaf blowers under specific circumstances to align with environmental goals.
  • Framingham: Considering restrictions on using 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 can only 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. There are 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 using gas-powered leaf blowers, particularly in residential areas, to address noise concerns.
  • Winchester: Introduced restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers to address community noise and air quality concerns.
  • Statewide Discussion: Massachusetts is seeing a rise in gas-powered leaf blower bans across various cities, reflecting growing environmental awareness.

Michigan

Michigan has seen several cities make strides toward banning gas-powered leaf blowers. Detroit and Ann Arbor are cities where local governments consider or have enacted regulations. 

  • Ann Arbor: The city has banned gas-powered leaf blowers as part of its environmental strategy. Violations will cause $100 for the first offense and $250 for the subsequent offense. Gas leaf blowers can still be used from October through May but will be prohibited entirely 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 discussed lowering lawn mowing and the impact of blowers.

Minnesota

Minnesota has not forced a statewide ban, but cities like Minneapolis and Saint Paul are discussing regulating gas-powered leaf blowers. Other cities, such as Duluth and Bloomington, 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 that has not yet been passed.

Mississippi

Mississippi does not have state regulations for gas-powered leaf blowers, and local municipalities have not significantly restricted or outlawed their use. 

Missouri

Gas leaf blowers have not been banned across the state of Missouri. However, discussions at the city level, especially in more significant 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. The state permits their use without any particular local restrictions. 

Nebraska

Nebraska has not moved towards prohibiting all gas leaf blowers at the state level, and 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: The county will give $325 vouchers to local commercial landscaping businesses to swap out their gas blowers for 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 several cities, including Maplewood and Larchmont. 

  • Maplewood: The township has regulations on using leaf blowers, including restrictions on gas-powered models to reduce noise and environmental impact. Ordinance 3057-22
  • Montclair: The town has banned 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 blowers that are gas-powered.
  • South Orange: Seasonal ban on leaf blowers that are gas-powered.
  • General Discussion: New Jersey is part of a broader U.S. trend of increasing bans on gasoline-powered leaf blowers, 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. Discussions about regulating these devices more strictly are ongoing in cities like New York City. 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, except six weeks in the Fall from October 26 to December 7. Violations are subject to fines of $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 leaf blowers, including limiting 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 from October 15 to December 15, with temporary allowances.
  • Mamaroneck: Enforces regulations on using 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 restricts using gas-powered leaf and lawn blowers to reduce noise pollution and improve air quality. All landscapers must register with the City and display their vehicle registration numbers.
  • New Castle: The town’s ordinance regulates the use of leaf blowers, including gas-powered ones, focusing 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: The ban is in effect annually for six months, from May 1st to October 31st.
  • Nyack: The town has enacted a leaf blower law that includes restrictions on using gas-powered models to promote sustainability. $500 for a 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 is in effect annually between May 1st and September 30.
  • Southampton: Public hearing and discussions.
  • Town of New Castle: Gas Leaf Blowers Are Not Permitted June 1 – September 30
  • Tarrytown: A gasoline-powered leaf and garden blower is prohibited from June 15 through September 15 of each year and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from September 16 through June 14 each year.
  • Village of Croton-on-Hudson: Hours of operation are limited. Gas-powered leaf blowers are banned in the Village during the summer and winter (June 1 – August 31 and January 1—March 31).
  • The Village of Ossining: A gas-powered leaf blower can only be used on parcels greater than ½ acres and only between 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, no significant bans are currently in place. 

General: Many cities, including several in North Carolina, have enacted general noise ordinances that ban noisy machines, such as 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 city-level discussions in Ohio, but no significant state-level bans have been enacted. There aren’t many restrictions on how businesses can use these devices. 

Oklahoma

Gas-powered leaf blowers have not been outlawed in Oklahoma state-by-state, and state cities have not taken any steps to regulate these devices.

  • Maplewood Online: Oklahomans are actively discussing and interested in 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 about leaf blower use, including potential restrictions on gas-powered models.
  • Multnomah County: The county supports 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 ongoing, but no concrete actions have been taken. 

  • 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, 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 is currently discussing and considering regulating gas-powered leaf blowers, similar to other regions that address noise and environmental concerns.
  • Charleston: The city council is moving by example by 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 entirely banned in Texas. Discussions may arise in urban regions; however, these devices are widely used without significant restrictions. 

  • Dallas: Senate Bill 1017 bans using engine-based fuel sources 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 cities in Utah. 

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, and local municipalities have not yet significantly regulated them.

  • 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 Virginia, especially in Northern Virginia, are discussing regulating gas-powered leaf blowers. However, neither the state nor the city has enacted any significant restrictions.

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

Washington

Cities like Seattle and Tacoma are 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 a ban and serious enforcement starting in 2026

  • Clyde Hill: Discussing the bans. The current Clyde Hill Municipal Code 8.10.030(G) restricts 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 2018 prohibits using gasoline-powered leaf blowers.

West Virginia 

Gas-powered leaf blowers are 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 Wyoming. The state allows their use, and municipalities have not moved towards specific regulation.

More Resources

The United States has many regulatory landscapes regarding gas-powered leaf blowers. Businesses that use gas-powered leaf blowers should stay current 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 that displays which cities, states, and companies have implemented policies to reduce pollution and noise from gas-powered lawn equipment.

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