Leaf Blower Use | East Hampton Town, NY

In 2021 the East Hampton Town Board passed legislation that placed a seasonal ban on the use of gasoline and diesel-powered leaf blowers by commercial landscapers and residents between May 20th and September 20th, and limits use during the remainder of the year.

Leaf blower use can be harmful to the operator and those nearby. In addition, leaf blowers can have harmful effects on the environment such as air and water pollution, spreading invasive vegetation, and disturbing wildlife habitats.

The Villages of East Hampton and Southampton have placed similar bans on the use of the leaf blowers within their jurisdiction. New York State is also considering legislation that would prohibit gas-powered leaf blowers from May-September.

To report a violation, contact Town of East Hampton Ordinance Enforcement: 631-324-3858

Leaf Blower Facts

• Gasoline and diesel-powered leaf blowers produce exhaust emissions including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter that contribute to air pollution and climate change, and can be harmful to human health.
• Exposure to the fumes and noise produced by gas and diesel leaf blowers is not only unpleasant but can be dangerous for the operator as well as others in the area, up to 50 feet away.
  • Fuel spillage/leakage from leaf blowers can pollute surface waterbodies and groundwater.
  • Electric and rechargeable leaf blower equipment does not produce any operating emissions, does not require fuel and is quieter than gas or diesel equipment.
  • Municipalities across the country are implementing restrictions on leaf blowers to help improve community health and quality of life.
  • Options for electric and rechargeable landscaping equipment are increasing. Rebates are available from PSEG for select electric leaf blower models.

Prohibited Uses

Commercial Landscapers

• Use of gasoline or diesel powered leaf blowers between May 20th and September 20th
• Use of any leaf blower on Sundays between May 20th and September 20th
• Use of gas or diesel powered leaf blowers between September 21^st and May 19th:
• Before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on weekdays
• Before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. on Saturdays
• On Sundays or Federal or NY State holidays
• Use of gasoline or diesel powered “walk-behind” leaf blowers on properties less than one acre
• Use of more than two leaf blowers of any power source on properties less than one acre
• Use of gasoline or diesel generators to power leaf blowers
• Performing any commercial landscaping activities in the Town of East Hampton without a landscaper’s endorsement to a valid Town Home Improvement Contractor’s license

Prohibited Uses

Homeowners and Tenants

The same restrictions on leaf blower use by commercial landscapers also apply to homeowners, occupants, and tenants.

EXCEPTIONS:

Gasoline or diesel-powered leaf blowers may be used on Sundays or holidays from September 21st to May 19th between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Penalties

Violators of this code may face:

• $1,000 fine for a first offense
• $1,500-$2,500 for a second offense, if committed within five years
• Up to $5,000 for a third offense, if committed within five years