Community Corner

Patch Chat: Shhh! Should Noise Restrictions Be Placed on Lawn Equipment?

What do you think about the City's expanded leaf blower law, and new decibel level restrictions for landscaping equipment? Tell us in the comments!

The White Plains Common Council approved legislation Monday night that would increase existing restrictions on the use of gas powered leaf blowers, as well as create new decibel-level limits for landscape maintenance equipment.

“This law represents an effort to reduce loud, unnecessary and unwanted noise in our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Tom Roach, in a press release. “Newer model gasoline powered leaf blowers will meet the decibel level restrictions, so this law is not expected to impose a hardship on landscape businesses nor directly impact the cost of landscaping services.”

According to a City press release, the White Plains Police Department will distribute informational flyers to landscapers they encounter during routine patrol. The flyers and a link to the law will be also posted on the City’s website.

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Here are the details on the law:

Blower Ban: White Plains’ previous leaf blower law banned the machines from June 15 through Sept. 30, allowing residents to only use them between Oct. 1 and June 14.

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The law now extends the ban from May 1 through Sept. 30 and from Dec. 16 to March 14. Leaf blowers can now only be used in White Plains between March 15 and May 14, and again between Oct. 1 and Dec. 15.

The machines can still be used between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, and 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Only one leaf blower can be used on a property 5,000 sq. ft. or less.

Noise Restrictions: Decibel levels for leaf blowers must remain at 70 decibels or less for gas powered leaf blowers and 85 decibels or less for gasoline powered landscape equipment; such as lawn mowers, chain saws and trimmers.

What do you think?

  • Are you glad to see the increased restrictions? If so, why?
  • Do you think the restrictions are too aggressive? If so, why?
  • Do you think the restrictions are not aggressive enough? If so, why?
  • How do you think this law will affect landscapers?
  • How do you think the law will affect homeowner?
  • What's wrong with using a rake?

Tell us what you think in the comments box below

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