Greenburgh Considers Temporary, Partial Leaf-Blower Ban

GREENBURGH, NY — Greenburgh officials are considering a temporary, partial ban on leafblowers.

Under the proposal, no leaf blowers at all could be used in unincorporated Greenburgh on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On weekends, leaf blowers could only be used between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The law would last only until Oct. 15.

"At the conclusion of the test we will consider a longer-term leaf blower law," said Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner.

In town the issue is contentious with very strong feelings on both sides, Feiner said.

"Enacting a leaf blower law has been among the most difficult quality of life issues to address," he said. "There are residents who can't deal with the noise from leaf blowers. There are other residents who object to government telling them what they can or can't do. Or, who can't afford landscapers and need the blowers for their property maintenance."

Feiner acknowledged that other communities in Westchester only allow electric blowers; however, the town's Conservation Advisory Committee feels that electric blowers also contribute to respiratory health issues.

The Greenburgh Town Board has scheduled a public hearing for 7:30 p.m. July 13 to discuss a temporary local law dealing with leaf blowers.

"We can evaluate our effectiveness dealing with enforcement of the law during the period the legislation is in place and, can also educate people about leaf blowers and options," Feiner said.

Residents are encouraged to email your thoughts to townboard@greenburghny.com