Public Hearing on Town Noise Ordinance Amendment
In response to numerous complaints about noise from leaf blowers, the Town Council introduced an amendment to the Town noise ordinance that is aimed at increasing the "quiet time" schedule that will take effect in the fall of this year. The objective of the amendment is to reduce noise specifically from loud, gas-powered leaf blowers. The effect of the amendment would be to prohibit gas-powered leaf blower operation before 9:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m. on weekdays, weekends, and holidays. In contrast, electric and battery-powered leaf blowers could be used from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Town Council members and the Town’s Climate and Environment Committee believe that this modest schedule change will not cause significant inconvenience to anyone, but will send a clear signal to encourage residents, landscape companies, and Town contractors to make the switch to quieter, cleaner electric and battery-powered leaf blowers. The schedule change would be supported by educational workshops and outreach efforts to demonstrate the benefits of electric and battery-powered landscape equipment.
The Town Council will hold a public hearing on the amendment at its meeting on July 16 at 7:00 p.m. Please review the ordinance amendment change and supporting Question & Answer document. Comments and questions can be presented in person at the public hearing or submitted by email to the Town office at townoffice@townofchevychase.org.