Quiet, Healthy Arlington
May 9, 2022: Article 16 Passes Arlington Town Meeting 187-44 !
See this May 11 Your Arlington article for a detailed account of the meeting.
Transitioning to Electric Leaf Blowers for a Quiet, Healthy Arlington, Massachusetts
Gas-powered leaf blowers create extremely loud noise and emit highly toxic fumes. Here in Arlington, they are often used in violation of even the limited restrictions imposed by a 2013 noise abatement bylaw, and nine years later, residents continue to be exposed to the noise and pollution. Quieter, cleaner, electric leaf blowers have now become a viable alternative. In addition, as the climate crisis has escalated, the Town of Arlington has declared a Climate Emergency, adopted a Net Zero Action Plan with significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions targeted for 2030, and is a state leader in the climate fight. In light of the many changes since 2013, it is time to reassess the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.
Article 16 will :
establish seasonal limits on gas-powered leaf blowers as of May 31, 2022
limit days and hours of operation as of May 31, 2022
prohibit use as of March 15, 2025 for commercial landscapers and the Town
prohibit use as of March 15, 2026 for residents
restore the right of residents to a quiet, healthy environment
allow landscaping companies and residents time to adapt
improve conditions for landscape workers
create a simpler law that is easier to understand and enforce
support the town’s commitment to sustainability and reaching Net Zero by 2050