Leafblowers must not exceed 65 decibels within 500m of residential areas

Establish maximum decibel limits for leafblowers operating near homes, with restricted hours of operation.

The Problem:

Gas-powered leafblowers reach 90-100 decibels—equivalent to a motorcycle or chainsaw. This isn't mild background noise; it's impossible to concentrate, sleep, or have a conversation. With more people working from home, a single landscaping crew can disrupt dozens of households for hours.

The Standard:

Why This Matters:

Noise pollution has documented effects on stress, blood pressure, and cognitive function. We regulate industrial noise, construction noise, and vehicle noise. Landscaping equipment that sounds like a jet engine shouldn't be exempt just because "that's how it's always been."