As ban on gas-powered leaf blowers nears, city to offer rebate on electric blowers

The ban aimed at reducing noise and pollution was initially set to go into effect in 2020, but was delayed until July 2024

Jan. 4, 2024

By Beth Kassab

Residents looking to purchase an electric leaf blower to comply with a new ban on the loud, gas-powered variety will be eligible for a $50 rebate in the form a utility credit under a new program to be considered by the City Commission on Wednesday.

The ban, which will take effect in July, comes with fines ranging from $60 to $300 for violations.

“Remind your landscape company,” reads a city notice, “All internal combustion engine or motor leaf blowers will be prohibited within the city limits.”

The one-time rebate will show up as a credit on residents’ utility bills, according to the program rules. The rebate is only available to residents.

The Washington Post reported recently that cities across the country have put similar bans on gas leaf blowers into place such as Washington, D.C, Miami Beach and Evanston, Ill. California is set to begin enforcing a statewide ban on the sale of new gas-powered lawn equipment.

Electric equipment is healthier for humans and the environment because there are fewer toxic emissions and comes without the jarring buzzsaw-like grind of a gas engine.

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