They had a good run, but gas-powered leaf blowers are disappearing in many parts of the United States. California and New York are leading the way with statewide restrictions that cover a range of small gas engines. Cities like Ann Arbor, Washington D.C., and Miami are also stepping in.
This list grows each year, and many homeowners ask: what’s the best option to buy now?
Where the Bans Are Happening
For the record, I'm team 'Battery Operated Tools,' but we do own both a gas backpack blower and battery-powered leaf blowers. Many communities that are phasing out gas blowers and other small tools are targeting businesses (like landscaping companies), while others institute rules for homeowners and businesses alike to combat noise pollution.
We understand the desire to shift, and know that the ban on gas blowers isn’t isolated; it’s spreading.
- California and New York: statewide legislation scopes bans on multiple types of gas-powered yard tools, not just blowers. These rules are among the strictest in the country and have pushed both residents and professionals to rethink what tools they buy.
- Connecticut: considering similar legislation, with pressure from local communities citing air quality and noise levels.
- Cities with full bans: Montgomery County, MD; Chevy Chase, MD; and Evanston, IL. Each passed ordinances after years of debate about noise complaints and pollution.
- Cities considering bans: Arlington County, VA; Portland, OR; and Highland Park, IL are all close to approving measures.
Even where laws aren’t in place yet, the pattern is clear: communities are phasing out gas power, and brands are getting creative on how they can help businesses and consumers afford new lawn equipment. For anyone shopping for a new blower today, it makes sense to think long term and compare the incentives.
Why Electric Tools Are a Better Option
Noise exposure is only part of the story. Gas tools are messy, hard to start, and require constant upkeep. Battery power solves that.
I’ve been working with brands like STIHL, Husqvarna, Kobalt, John Deere, and CRAFTSMAN for years. Having tested a wide range of battery-powered outdoor tools in the last 15 years, I always underscore how far battery technology has come.
- Starts instantly: press a button, no pull cords.
- No fumes: no mixing gas, no smell clinging to clothes.
- Low maintenance: no spark plugs, filters, or carburetors to deal with.
- Lighter weight: easier to carry and maneuver for longer jobs.
- Substantial battery life: Have two batteries for handheld products. Keep one on the charger, and swap as needed.
Outside of leaf blowers, STIHL's TSA 230 cut-off machine is one of the most impressive battery-powered tools we've used. We used it to cut through pieces of flagstone.
Husqvarna's 330iK Combi Switch System is another great product; it's 15-in-1 system services a wide range of outdoor landscaping needs. It has a great battery, and a flexible product that would be great for many consumers.
We tested John Deere’s Z370R Electric ZTrak lawn mower for a month last summer and still talk about it to this day. It ran smooth, cut clean, and proved electric equipment can handle big jobs (it had plenty of juice left even after mowing our two-acre lawn).
What’s on Sale Right Now
For anyone ready to make the switch, STIHL flagged for me that two products are on promotion through December 31, 2025:
Both are designed to replace gas blowers for everyday yard work. The deal saves you up to $321 and includes a free battery with a full set purchase. That’s a major value, since batteries are one of the most expensive parts of an electric setup.
Another advantage: STIHL's batteries are part of a shared system. That means the same battery can power multiple tools, from trimmers to hedge cutters, cutting down costs even more over time. "With options that support extended use and quick battery swaps, you can power through full-day tasks without missing a beat," highlighted STIHL Product Manager Jack Summerfield.
He added, “And it’s not just about power. STIHL battery tools offer everyday advantages: minimal maintenance, zero exhaust emissions, easy operation, and significantly reduced noise. That means a better experience for you—and for the neighborhood.”
Why Governments Are Making the Switch
The bans aren’t just about quieter neighborhoods. They’re also about cleaner air.
Small gas engines create more pollution than most people realize. In fact, the California Air Resources Board reported that running a gas leaf blower for one hour can create as much smog-forming pollution as driving a car for hundreds of miles.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation also highlights the presence of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons in the exhaust. All of those factors contribute to air pollution.
For communities focused on health risk, battery tools cut those emissions to zero during use.
Local governments also respond to resident complaints. Leaf blowers run for hours in dense neighborhoods, which makes certain levels of noise hard to ignore. Bans aim to balance the needs of landscape maintenance with public health and the comfort of residents.
FAQ
Are gas-powered leaf blowers banned everywhere?
No, but the trend is picking up steam... er, getting charged. With more and more cities actively considering bans, the availability of gas blowers will likely shrink over the next few years.
Will electric blowers last as long as gas ones?
We've been using a battery-powered Kobalt cordless leaf blower since 2016, and we use it almost daily to clean leaves, pollen, and acorns off our driveway and patio. So, let that be a gauge on how well they last. Is the battery as strong as the day we bought it? Probably not. Does it always get the job done? Yes.
Keep in mind, gas engines wear out and need frequent repairs like spark plugs, carburetor cleanings, and pull-cord fixes. Battery-powered tools skip those problems.
While you might eventually need to replace a battery, the overall lifespan of the tool often equals or beats gas.
