Breaking News: Rye City Council Considers Leaf Blower Ban & We Need Your Help!

On Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., the Rye City Council will hold a public hearing to consider legislation that would ban all gas-powered leaf blowers within the City of Rye for both homeowners and landscape contractors, while also severely limiting the use of battery-powered equipment.

The current makeup of the City Council is heavily leaning toward passing this total ban, making it critically important that residents attend and voice their opposition.

WHY THIS PROPOSED BAN MATTERS

If passed, this legislation will create a hardship for a majority of Rye homeowners and the landscape contractors who maintain their properties.

• Spring & fall cleanup costs are estimated to increase four to five times the current rates.
• The green industry is already facing a severe labor shortage, due to current federal immigration policy.
• Requiring cleanups to be performed primarily with battery-powered leaf blowers is unrealistic under current conditions & technology.

BATTERY TECHNOLOGY IS NOT READY FOR COMMERCIAL USE

At this time, commercial battery-powered leaf blowers cannot replace gas-powered equipment, especially during spring and fall cleanups when leaves and debris are wet, compacted, and heavy. Battery equipment lacks the sustained power, runtime, and efficiency required to perform full-day cleanups on larger residential properties in a timely and affordable manner.

UNEQUAL AND UNFAIR APPLICATION OF THE LAW

Despite the sweeping restrictions proposed for residents and contractors, City-owned properties, government agencies, and schools will remain exempt, as they have under past regulations. Once again, homeowners and small businesses are expected to comply while the City is not — the adage applies: “Do as I say, not as I do.”

A SMALL MINORITY SHOULD NOT DICTATE CITYWIDE POLICY

This legislation has been driven by a small but outspoken minority, yet its consequences would be felt by every homeowner in Rye. If passed, it will have a devastating impact on property maintenance costs, contractors, and the overall appearance of our community.

PLEASE TAKE ACTION — YOUR VOICE MATTERS

Attend the City Council Meeting: Rye City Hall, Wed, Jan 28, 2026 7:00 p.m.

• Speak during the public hearing

• Sign the attached petition to show opposition to this unfair legislation

Now is the time to be heard. Help stop unreasonable legislation and keep the landscapes of the City of Rye beautiful and well maintained.