Tuesday forum to discuss proposed leaf-blower rules

The Leaf Blower Study Committee (LBSC) will host a public forum tonight (Tuesday, Jan. 6) to present a draft version of leaf blower regulations begin considered for adoption at Town Meeting in March. Tonight’s meeting will start at 7 p.m. in the Town Office Building.

Since it was created by Town Meeting vote in 2013, the LBSC has been studying the health effects of gas-powered leaf blowers on public and private property, potential alternatives to their use, and what other cities and towns have done to restrict their use.  The group surveyed Lincoln residents last year on their experiences and opinions about leaf blowers.

Before presenting a finalized proposal for new town regulations to a vote at Town Meeting on March 28, the LBSC is seeking public feedback on its draft, which is summarized below. The goal of the regulations is to reduce noise and air pollution (emissions and dust) and contribute to better public health and quality of life and to the health of the environment while also being simple and clear, easily enforceable, and not unduly restrictive to homeowners or the town.

Proposed regulations on use of gas-powered leaf blowers

• From October 1 to May 14, anyone may use a leaf blower on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, private residents may use leaf blowers on Sundays and holidays from 1-5 p.m.
• From May 15 to September 30, any use of leaf blowers would be permitted only to address public safety issues and for severe weather cleanup, with possible occasional one-time exemptions for aesthetic cleanup by municipal/commercial users.
• Users of leaf blowers must abide by the following restrictions at all times:
  • No blowing onto adjacent properties
  • No creating dust clouds
  • No blowing onto people or pets
  • No blowing into storm drains
  • No blowing onto streets or gutters, except municipal preparations for street cleaning
• Enforcement is by Lincoln Police Department. Fines: $100 for the first infraction, $200 for the second infraction, $300 for subsequent infractions.