Montgomery County is advising citizens and businesses that gas-powered vacuums and leaf blowers, including walk-behind, portable, and backpack types, will not be allowed starting on July 1.
According to the news release, the legislation phased out the sale and use of gas-powered leaf removal equipment in favor of cleaner and quieter electric options after being approved by the County Council and signed by County Executive Marc Elrich in October 2023.
According to County Executive Marc Elrich, this adjustment is about enhancing quality of life and safeguarding public health. Gas-powered leaf blowers are noisy and detrimental to both the users and the communities in which they are utilized. Electric substitutes are more sustainable, cleaner, and quieter. Because everyone deserves less noise in their communities, we have been striving to make this transition as seamless as possible by providing information and subsidies, particularly for landscapers and small companies.
All walk-behind, backpack, and handheld gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuums used in public, commercial, and residential settings are prohibited. Producers of agricultural products are exempt. Montgomery County Government properties are likewise subject to the statute.
Important information:
-
Prohibition on the use
of handheld, backpack and walk-behind gas-powered leaf blowers and leaf vacuums will begin on July 1, 2025. -
Limited Rebates
are available July 1 to help offset the cost of replacing gas-powered equipment with electric models. -
Noise limits
remain in place: Leaf blowers and vacuums must not exceed 70 decibels at a distance of 50 feet.
Director of the County’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Jon Monger, stated, “We understand that this transition represents a significant change, especially for landscapers and small business owners.” To facilitate the transition to electric equipment, we have created a thorough support system that includes subsidies, bilingual outreach, and educational materials. Assisting every resident and business in effectively adjusting to this new norm continues to be our top concern.
DEP has taken the following actions to facilitate the switch from gas-powered to battery-powered lawn equipment:
- Hosted a Landscaping with Batteries Workshop & Field Day for landscape professionals.
- Advertised in English and Spanish through radio, digital ads, bus ads, mailers, social media, gas pump toppers, and other channels.
- Connected with landscapers and residents through direct conversations across Montgomery County.
To raise awareness and help with rebate availability, DEP is still collaborating closely with independent contractors and nearby landscaping businesses.
Visit the County sLeaf Blower Transition website to learn more about the law, the rebate program, compliance materials, and the public hearing scheduled for July 15.
