South Orange Considers Year-Round Crackdown on Gas Leaf Blowers With Full Ban Planned for 2027

Officials in South Orange are moving closer to a major environmental policy change that could completely ban gas-powered leaf blowers across the township by 2027. Local leaders say the proposal is part of a broader effort to reduce noise pollution, improve public health, and encourage cleaner landscaping practices.

The discussion is currently being reviewed by the South Orange Village Council along with the township’s Environmental Commission. Existing rules already limit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers during part of the year, but officials are now considering a wider phaseout plan that would eventually remove the machines entirely from use within the community.

Under the current ordinance adopted in 2022, gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited between May 1 and Sept. 30 each year. The newly discussed proposal would significantly expand those restrictions beginning in 2026. If approved, the seasonal limitation would cover April through December before transitioning into a complete ban in 2027.

Environmental Commission Chair Kathleen Grant presented the proposal during a council meeting on May 11. According to township officials, the plan is designed to give homeowners and landscaping companies enough time to prepare for the transition to electric-powered equipment.

Supporters of the proposal argue that gas-powered landscaping tools create serious environmental and health concerns for both workers and nearby residents. During the presentation, officials noted that gas leaf blowers can produce noise levels exceeding 110 decibels at the operator’s ear. Health experts have long linked that level of sound exposure to hearing damage and other long-term health effects.

Town leaders also expressed concerns about the impact of constant loud noise in residential neighborhoods. Officials said even lower levels of repeated noise can travel long distances and affect hundreds of nearby homes, especially in densely populated communities.

The Environmental Commission additionally raised concerns about how prolonged exposure to loud equipment noise could affect children. Officials said high and repeated sound levels may interfere with learning, concentration, and cognitive development.

Environmental impacts were another major focus during the discussion. According to information shared with the council, operating a gas-powered leaf blower for just 30 minutes can release hydrocarbon emissions comparable to driving a large pickup truck for nearly 4,000 miles. Officials also highlighted concerns over carbon monoxide emissions, particulate matter, and other pollutants that may affect air quality.

Supporters of the proposal believe electric landscaping equipment has improved enough in recent years to make the transition more practical. The commission referenced consumer testing showing that many electric leaf blowers now perform at levels similar to or better than gas-powered models. Although electric equipment can cost more upfront, officials argued that lower maintenance and fuel expenses may reduce long-term operating costs.

Some landscaping companies serving the South Orange area have already started shifting toward electric equipment following the township’s seasonal restrictions. Local officials said that gradual adoption could help ease the impact on small businesses before a complete ban takes effect.

The proposal also includes several ideas intended to support residents and landscaping workers during the transition period. Suggested measures include public education campaigns focused on environmental and health effects, along with a directory highlighting landscaping companies that use environmentally friendly equipment.

Officials are also considering equipment-sharing programs, including community tool sheds, to help residents access electric landscaping tools without large personal expenses.

Another issue raised during discussions involved worker safety and fairness. Township leaders noted that landscapers and outdoor workers often face the highest levels of exposure to emissions and excessive noise from gas-powered equipment. Officials said the transition plan aims to reduce those health risks over time.

South Orange leaders emphasized that no final decision has been made. The proposal still needs to be formally drafted and reviewed before any ordinance can move forward. Township officials also plan to hold a public town hall meeting so residents can provide feedback before the council takes further action.

Sources

• South Orange Village Council
• South Orange Environmental Commission