Two weeks before the Montgomery County ban on gas-powered leaf blowers goes into effect, councilmembers proposed to amend the law to add a seasonal exemption.
Currently there is a ban on sale of gas-powered leaf blowers in the county. Use of the gas-powered equipment was to be outlawed July 1.
But the price of electric leaf blowers remains high due to federal government enacted tariffs. So Councilmember Gabe Albornoz said he thought landscapers should be allowed to continue using gas-powered equipment from October to January, when most leaf blowing occurs.
Albornoz introduced a bill Tuesday including a seasonal exemption that would expire in three years.
“I believe this is common sense,” he said.
The bill is designed to help commercial landscapers. They point out battery-powered equipment costs more and has a shorter run time.
Landscapers have told Councilmembers it would be expensive to transition from gas to electric. As a result they may have to upcharge their clients and lay off workers.
Prohibition of gas-powered leaf blowers was originally discussed as a way to reduce noise, health and environmental concerns.
According to a report by Council staff, “The ban was implemented due to significant noise complaints from County residents regarding the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, as the noise can easily travel through windows and doors, which impacts a person’s ability to enjoy their home. In addition, the ban provided co-benefits linked to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, increased clean air, and further supported the County’s Climate Action Plan.”
A public hearing on the bill is set for July 15.
