Contractor Illegally Used Gas-Powered Leaf Blower During Prohibited Time: Village Of Northbrook

NORTHBROOK, IL — Earlier this year, an ordinance went into effect making it illegal to use gas-powered leaf blowers during specific times. A contractor hired by the Village to maintain government properties used the banned equipment during a prohibited period.

On Dec. 12, 2023, the Northbrook Village Board approved a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the use of gas-powered leaf blowers is prohibited during the following months:

• Banned — December through March and May through September
• Permitted Use — April (spring clean-up) and October through November (fall clean-up)

The Village issued the following statement:

"The Village is aware that a contractor hired to perform landscaping services at Village facilities was identified as using a gas-powered leaf blower last week. The use of this equipment is prohibited under the Village contract with the vendor and is in violation of local ordinances, which restrict gas-powered leaf blower use from May through September. Contractors and any subcontractors must comply with all local regulations and contractual requirements. The Village has notified the contractor of the violation and issued a formal warning. Any future violation will result in termination of the contract and the issuance of a citation under Village ordinances."

Starting in January, the Village began offering an incentive program to assist registered landscape contractors to transition to electric leaf blowers. The program, available on a first-come, first-served basis, offers an instant rebate for an electric leaf blower package at the Northbrook Ace Hardware Store, 1941 Cherry Lane.

To qualify, contractors must have a current contractor business license, complete the Landscape Contractor Incentive Program application, and either be based in Northbrook or serve at least two clients within the Village. Vouchers for this program are available exclusively from the sustainability coordinator.

The restrictions apply to all users, including residents and landscape contractors. Electric leaf blowers — both corded and battery-powered — are not affected by the ban and may be used year-round.

All landscape contractors working in Northbrook are required to obtain an annual Contractor Business License. The application and other helpful resources can be found here. Completed applications should be emailed to permits@northbrook.il.us. For questions about licensing, please contact a permit clerk at 847-664-4050.

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