From Quiet Clean D.C.:
“What does the DC law require? As of January 1, 2022, no one may sell or use a gas-powered leaf blower in the District of Columbia, except on Federal land.
2. Why did the DC Council make this change? They were concerned about:
a. Workers having their hearing damaged from the noisy gas-powered
b. Neighbors being disturbed by the low-frequency sound of gas-powered blowers that carries throughout the neighborhood and penetrates people’s homes through walls and windows [Battery-powered blowers are much quieter in this regard.]
c. A reduction in air pollution exposure for workers and neighbors that is a side benefit of this switch to battery blowers.
3. When must this change be made? The deadline is soon, January 1, 2022. The law was enacted 3 years ago in order to give companies time to make the switch.
4. How will this ban be enforced? The District’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) will enforce the ban with up to $500 fines. They plan to rely primarily on affidavits from residents who see and photograph gas-powered leaf blowers being used after January 1, 2022.
5. Are battery-powered leaf blowers quieter and do they work as well? Battery-powered leaf blowers have been shown to emit a higher-frequency sound that does not travel as far or penetrate walls the way the lower-frequency noise from gas blowers does. Battery-powered leaf blowers have been improving in their performance with the development of stronger batteries and the newer machines have a high velocity air output.
6. Will this change-over be expensive? Companies will need to invest in the new equipment along with extra batteries and chargers. This can involve a substantial up-front cost. However, studies show that over time users will save money using these battery-powered machines.
7. Where can I learn more about this transition and where to get some help? You can visit the Transition page on QuietCleanDC.com ‘s website at quietcleandc.com/transition-guide (which is the page you are seeing now), and the Resources and Help pages.”
Odds the ban will be enforced?