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Among the most restrictive bylaws in the country. Effective March 15, 2024: no gas-powered leaf blowers on properties with less than one acre of open space. Electric blowers year-round within hours (M–F 8am–8pm; Sat/Sun/holidays 9am–6pm) and ≤67 dBA at 50 feet. Annual commercial permit required. Lots ≤7,500 sq ft limited to 2 blowers simultaneously.
Enacted: 2011-11-16In effect since: 2024-03-15
Significant exemptions:
Large lots — Properties with one acre or more of open space
Bylaw Article 8.31 — Leaf Blower Control. Original bylaw 2016; amended 2022 as Article 27 (petitioners Don Warner, Virginia Smith, Clint). Penalties up to $150 per violation with co-responsibility applying to both property owner and landscape company. DPW tracks complaints; Police enforce. Brooklineleaves.org is the longest-sustained local advocacy group in MA.
Last updated: Jun 3, 2026
Timeline
- 2024-03-15Effective date reached — Ban on gas blowers on lots <1 acre of open space took effect
- 2022Amended — Town Meeting adopted Article 27 amendment
- 2016Adopted — Original leaf blower bylaw adopted
Guidance310 CMR 7.10 noise regulation; three failed incentive bills
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