Effective this month, a gas-powered blower ban will be enforced in Westport and Greenwich through October. At LaurelRock, we are deeply committed to environmental sustainability and are already using electric blowers, however, we also want to ensure that everyone is aware of this regulation.
Understanding the Ban
The gas-powered blower ban restricts the use of gas-powered blowers at specific times of the year and at particular times of the day. The amendment aims to enact regulations to prevent noise pollution and ensure public health.
Potential benefits of this ban:
Reducing Noise Pollution
Gas-powered blowers are significant contributors to noise pollution in residential areas. These machines can produce noise levels of about 85 decibels, adversely affecting human health and disrupting the peace and quiet of neighborhoods.
Protecting Public Health
Gas-powered blowers not only emit noise but also release harmful pollutants into the air. These pollutants can include carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and nitrogen oxides. Prolonged exposure can lead to a range of health problems, particularly respiratory issues. By limiting the use of gas-powered tools in populated areas, the ban seeks to reduce the health risks associated with these emissions.
Promoting Environmentally Friendly Alternatives
Implementing a ban on gas-powered blowers encourages the use of more environmentally-friendly alternatives. Electric or battery-powered tools produce significantly less noise and zero emissions on-site. By adopting these tools, as LaurelRock has done, individuals and landscaping companies can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Gas-Powered Blower Usage Restrictions and Areas Affected
In Greenwich, the restrictions for gas-powered blower usage are as follows:
- Gas-powered leaf blowers in residential zones may not be used from 6:00 p.m. the Friday before Memorial Day through September 30. The exception is for properties of 2+ acres where the prohibition ends the day after Labor Day.
- Electric leaf blowers may be used year-round, in compliance with the following point.
- ANY leaf blower may not be used between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. Monday through Friday and between 3 p.m. and 9 a.m. Saturday, Sunday, and holidays.
- Commercial use of gas-powered blowers on premises in residential zones is prohibited on Sundays.
- Commercial and residential parcels of ¼ acre or less may only be serviced by one leaf blower at any given time.
People are encouraged to report violations, though penalties will not begin until 2025 to allow landscaping companies and individuals to adjust to the new ordinance.
In Westport, the restrictions for gas-powered blower usage are as follows:
- As of January 1, 2024, handheld and backpack gas-powered leaf blowers may not be used on any state or federal Holiday. See a full list of holidays here.
- Gas-powered leaf blowers may not be used May 15 through October 15, 2024.
- Beginning October 16 and through December 30, 2024, gas-powered leaf blowers may only be used between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Areas Affected
The ban encompasses all commercial and residential properties. This means that all professional landscapers and homeowners within Greenwich and Westport must adhere to their respective new regulations.
How LaurelRock is Complying
At LaurelRock, we are committed to complying with these bans while maintaining the high standard of service our clients expect.
We have been dedicated to using battery-powered and electric equipment on properties whenever possible to minimize our carbon footprint. Not only do they run quieter and more efficiently, but they also don’t use gas, which can be harmful to the environment through constant operation.
Since 2020, our fine gardening crews have been fully equipped with the latest battery-powered tools, completely phasing out gas-powered alternatives. These include electric hand-held blowers, electric hedge trimmers and chainsaws.
In 2023, LaurelRock’s lawn crews made the transition to battery-operated backpack blowers, alongside their 21” battery mowers and line trimmers, enhancing both efficiency and environmental responsibility. This transition reflects our dedication to sustainability and our responsibility to the communities we serve.
Last summer LaurelRock also became the first company in Connecticut to integrate 52” electric stand-on Exmark mowers into their fleet and this spring we are debuting the 60” electric ride-on mower. By 2027, we are committed to having a fully electric fleet of equipment. Going forward, gas-powered leaf blowers will only be used for spring and fall cleanup services as allowed by the current new laws. Once the battery technology improves to a point where they can sustain 8 hours of constant use on one charge, we plan to use them year-round.
Embracing a Sustainable Future
The implementation of this gas-powered blower ban is a crucial step in reducing our environmental impact and creating a more sustainable future. By transitioning to electric tools, we are complying with regulations and actively contributing to the well-being of our community and the environment.
We encourage all of our clients and community members to support this initiative. By choosing eco-friendly landscaping services like LaurelRock, you are making a positive impact on the environment and helping create a healthier, more sustainable community that you will love coming home to.
For more information on LaurelRock’s compliance with the gas-powered blower bans, please visit LaurelRock’s website or contact us.
