In January 2025, Annapolis Will Enact New Ordinance to Curb Noise and Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers in Residential Areas
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Earlier this year, the Annapolis City Council passed an ordinance (O-28-23) to reduce noise pollution and a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers in residential areas of the City. The legislation is aimed at enhancing quality of life for residents by addressing a significant cause of noise and air pollution and takes effect January 1, 2025.
A typical gas-powered leaf blower can emit noise levels between 70 and 100 decibels (dB) at the ear of the operator, while electric leaf blowers emit between 60 and 70 decibels. Decibels are calculated on a logarithmic scale, meaning that every increase of 10 on the scale is equal to a 10-fold, or an exponential increase, in sound. The type of noise emitted by gas-powered leaf blowers travels long distances and penetrates exterior walls of buildings, while battery-powered blowers are much less harmful.
“This legislation is another step Annapolis is taking to protect the health of City residents, workers and the environment,” said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley. “Annapolis is joining the more than 100 other cities that have banned or restricted this major source of air pollution.”
The ordinance sets new maximum decibel levels for different zoning districts. In residential areas, noise levels are restricted to a maximum of 65 decibels during daytime hours (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and 55 decibels during nighttime hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). Office and mixed-use districts will have slightly higher thresholds, while commercial and industrial areas will be permitted the highest levels.
High noise levels damage hearing, interfere with sleep, and increase blood pressure, adrenaline, and heart rates. Gas-powered blowers also emit high levels of smog-forming pollution harmful to operators, those exposed to airborne pollution, and the environment.
Electric leaf blowers are cheaper to operate, especially over time as they require less maintenance and remove the need to purchase fuel. Upfront costs of electric leaf blowers are on par with gas.
Violations will result in municipal fines. Enforcement may be carried out by designated city officials, including inspectors with the Department of Planning and Zoning as well as Annapolis Police. Fines escalate for repeat offenders.
City officials recognize that any enforcement or complaint system may disproportionately impact historically marginalized communities. Officials will seek to prioritize education and outreach over enforcement, particularly at the onset of the ban.
“This is a quality of life issue that is building throughout communities across the country. Annapolis is stepping up its commitment to be cleaner, healthier, and quieter,” said Annapolis Deputy City Manager for Resilience & Sustainability Jacqueline Guild.
The new regulations are effective January 1, 2025. For further information, visit Go Electric Leaf Blower Policy.
