8-5-13 Leaf BlowersLeaf Blower Study Session
Town of Los Gatos
August 5, 2013
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Purpose
Identify environmental and health concerns related to the operation of leaf blowers
Provide a survey of leaf blower regulations in Santa Clara County
Identify potential impacts of a leaf blower regulation
Provide options for a leaf blower regulation
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Sustainability Plan
Adopted July 2012
RE-4 Adoption of a leaf blower ordinance
Background
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Environmental Concerns
Noise Pollution
Particulate Matter
Carbon Emissions
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Existing Programs
BAAQMD Spare the Air Days
AQMD Leaf Blower Exchange Program
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Current Regulations in
Santa Clara County
Town of Los Gatos
Restricted use from 8 a.m-8 p.m. M-F
Restricted use from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sundays and Holidays
City of Palo Alto
Bans the use of gas-powered leaf blowers
Current ordinance adopted in 2005
City of Los Altos
Bans the use of gas-powered leaf blowers
Ordinance adopted in 1991
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Reduced mobile sources of noise
Reduced gasoline fuel emissions
Reduced airborne particulate matter
Possible health benefits to leaf blower operators if appropriate protection is used.
Potential Advantages
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Issues for Consideration
Opposition from homeowners & landscape professionals
Financial Impact to Town Operations
Enforcement
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Council Direction
Make no change to current ordinance;
Amend current ordinance to reduce hours and days of operation;
Prohibit the use of electric or gas powered leaf blowers that are higher than 65 dB;
Prohibit the use of gas powered blowers;
Adopt a Spare the Air policy similar to BAAQMD;
Pursue options for a leaf blower exchange program
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Questions?
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