The Alexandria City Council has taken the first legislative step toward banning gas-powered leaf blowers, citing significant environmental and noise concerns. On Tuesday, the council voted 5-1 on the First Reading of an ordinance that would prohibit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers throughout the city.
The proposed ban includes an 18-month phase-out period for the community, while city government departments would transition away from gas-powered equipment within one year.
“Running a gas-powered leaf blower for one hour is comparable to driving from DC to Miami in a new car,” Jesse Maines, Stormwater Management division chief with Transportation Environmental Services, told council members during his presentation…