Leaf Blowers Frequently Asked Questions

Did you know, using a gas leaf blower for one hour is the same emissions of driving a car from Washington, D.C. to Miami, Florida? While gas-powered leaf blowers may seem like a niche issue to address compared to all the other environmental impacts on our planet, they contribute air emissions, rely on fossil fuels, and also are a significant public health challenge. Gas leaf blowers powered by two-stroke engines contribute to hearing loss, respiratory and cardiovascular disease, birth defects, asthma, hypertension, sleep disorders, and other health impacts. Impacts from two-stroke engines often disproportionally effect lower income workers. Two-stroke engines have been phased out of nearly all other industries in the U.S. due to impacts on worker health—yet they are still used in the landscape industry. Eliminating gas-powered leaf blowers is one of the easiest transitions a household or company can make to reduce their impacts on air quality and health. 

Handheld, backpack, and walk-behind gas-powered leaf blowers and leaf vacuums cannot be used in Montgomery County after July 1, 2025.

• The ban on SALES begins July 1, 2024.
• The ban on USE begins July 1, 2025.

The ban applies to private property, commercial property, local government, and County government.

The ban does not apply to Montgomery County Schools or Montgomery Parks (these properties are managed by the State) but both agencies are committing to a strong transition to electric leaf blowers.

After July 1, 2024, no one can sell a gas-powered handheld, backpack, or walk-behind gas-powered leaf blower or leaf vacuum in Montgomery County.

No.

Electric leaf blowers cannot exceed 70dBA at 50 feet. When purchasing an electric blower ensure the machine specifications do not exceed 70dBA.

After July 1, 2025, the fine for using gas-powered leaf removal equipment is $500 per violation.

Gas-powered leaf blowers should be drained of oil and gas and can be brought to the Shady Grove Transfer Station for scrap metal recycling or you can schedule a scrap metal pickup. The oil and gas can also be brought to the household hazardous waste pavilion at the Transfer Station.