Leaf Blower Regulations, Ban Considered In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Those noisy gas-powered leaf blowers could become a thing of the past if the City of Alexandria adopts a ban.

The city government is considering options for a ban on leaf blowers using gas power, from no changes to stricter regulations on gas leaf blowers to a total ban. The city cites noise-related concerns and air pollution from gas leaf blowers, according to a late January presentation to City Council.

Legislation to allow localities to ban gas-powered leaf blowers has not yet advanced. However, the city said the Virginia attorney general provided an August 2024 opinion that the city charter provides authority to ban leaf blowers.

The city could consider phasing in a ban of gas-powered leaf blowers. Transitioning the city's own leaf blowing to electric-powered equipment would have implications in the fiscal year 2026 budget under consideration.

Currently, the city's noise code restricts hours for power lawn and garden equipment use to 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and major holidays.

To share options for regulation and gather public feedback, the city government is hosting two hybrid community meetings for residents and business owners on March 13 and 26. City staff will provide a presentation of the proposed regulation, expected impacts and a proposed timeline. Staff will take questions.

Meeting details are:

Patrick Henry Recreation Center: Thursday, March 13, 7 p.m.: The first community meeting will focus on the potential regulation changes of gas-powered leaf blowers and the implementation process for the general community. In order to attend virtually, members of the public must register at: https://zoom.us/j/93215505100

Passcode: 087953

City Hall Sister Cities Room 1101: Wednesday, March 26, 7 p.m.: The second meeting will provide information on the potential regulation changes for gas-powered leaf blowers, with further discussion on the impacts on landscape companies and large property owners. In order to attend virtually, members of the public must register at the following link:

https://zoom.us/j/95937594296
Passcode: 143522