Question of the Week: Leaf Blower Ban

As discussed in a May study session, the Burlingame City Council may consider banning leaf blowers or placing restrictions on types of equipment and hours of use allowed.

At , the Burlingame City Council heard from the Citizen’s Environmental Council on its proposed plan of action regarding leaf blowers.

The CEC prepared two sample ordinances to bring before the council. One would ban only gas-powered leaf blowers—which emit carbon monoxide into the air—and the other would ban both gas and electric leaf blowers.

A report on leaf blower safety was also presented to the council. 

According to the report, both gas and electric leaf blowers release “ground-borne pathogens called ‘particulate matter’ into our breathing air (mercury, arsenic, mold, animal feces, pesticides, etc.), which researchers believe contributes to and causes respiratory disease,” such as asthma and lung disease.

Those who live and work in neighborhoods where leaf blowers are used during the day are at greatest risk, which accounts for 55 percent of Burlingame residents, the report said.

Workers operating the leaf blowers are at an even greater risk, especially as many refrain from using protective eye or ear wear.

Now, city officials are asking for feedback through a survey posted on the city website. We're curious to see what you have to say too!

What do you think of the proposed ordinance? Are leaf blowers unsafe? Did you take the survey? How did you answer?