In a 10–4 vote on November 19th, the Lower Merion Board of Commissioners approved an ordinance that will phase out gas-powered leaf blowers by 2029. The ban will apply to all properties in the township and will be introduced gradually, beginning with seasonal restrictions that expand each year until a complete prohibition takes effect. Fines for violations will start at $100 for a first offense and increase to $250 and $600 for subsequent violations within a twelve-month period.
Township officials say the move is part of a broader effort to reduce both noise and air pollution. According to environmental data cited during the discussions, running a gas-powered leaf blower for just one hour creates the same amount of pollution as driving a car from Lower Merion to Florida. These machines also lack the emissions controls found in modern automobiles, contributing to Montgomery County producing as much pollution from small engines each year as roughly 32,640 cars.
Noise levels were another major concern. Gas-powered blowers can reach up to 115 decibels—similar to a car horn or listening to headphones at maximum volume—raising long-term risks for hearing and quality of life in residential areas.
While many residents support the transition to cleaner, quieter equipment, some remain concerned about cost and convenience. Electric lawn tools often come with a higher upfront price, and landscaping companies and homeowners will need to replace their existing gas-powered equipment. Battery life and performance on larger properties have also been debated.
However, industry professionals note that modern electric tools are significantly more capable than their reputation suggests. In an interview with WHYY, Doug Downing, founder of Advanced Environmental Lawn Services, explained that although electric equipment costs more initially, it becomes cheaper over time.
“You’re essentially buying years’ worth of fuel at the time of purchase,” he said. “Aside from that, everything else is unfounded. The power of this equipment is absolutely equal, if not more powerful than the gas equivalent.”
Electric leaf blowers are also far quieter. Many top models operate below 65 decibels, and even the loudest seldom exceed 85 decibels—well below the noise produced by the gas standards. Battery life continues to improve, with some models lasting up to 90 minutes on a full charge. Charging times vary depending on battery size but generally range from half an hour to a few hours.
As the township prepares for the 2029 deadline, residents and businesses will have several years to adapt. The hope is that the gradual rollout will ease the transition while helping Lower Merion reduce emissions and create quieter neighborhoods.
Lower Merion’s decision reflects a nationwide shift toward electrified lawn equipment. Policies addressing gas-powered tools exist in at least 27 states and Washington, D.C. Major retailers are preparing for this transition as well: Home Depot has pledged that over 85% of its outdoor lawn equipment sales will be battery-powered by 2028, and Lowe’s reports that 60% of its current sales are already electric.
As the township prepares for the 2029 deadline, residents and businesses will have several years to adapt. The hope is that the gradual rollout will ease the transition while helping Lower Merion reduce emissions and create quieter neighborhoods.
For Haverford students who live in or near the township, the shift may soon become noticeable in their own neighborhoods, where the familiar roar of gas blowers could gradually give way to quieter, cleaner equipment. As the 2029 deadline approaches, the transition is likely to subtly reshape the daily soundscape around the School and the wider community.