On Sept. 22nd, during Climate Week 2020, the New Castle Town Board unanimously approved a local law to ban the use of gas-powered leaf blowers during the summer months.
Executive Summary - Leaf Blower Environmental Protection Law
June 1 –September 30
No Fuel-Powered Leaf Blowers (GLBs)
Electric Leaf Blowers are permitted
October 1 –May 31
GLBs and Electric Leaf Blowers are permitted
Noise Levels from Domestic Tools
No restrictions during the hours of:
- 8 AM –8 PM –Mon –Fri
- 9 AM –8 PM –Sat
- 9 AM –5 PM –Sun & Holidays
All other times not to exceed 45 dB(A)
Exemptions:
- Chappaqua Central School District’s & Town of New Castle’s recreational fields, tennis courts, country clubs’ tennis courts, homeowner associations’ tennis courts, swim clubs’ tennis courts, golf courses, and cemeteries
- Use of any fuel-powered motorized leaf blower shall be minimized to the maximum extent practicable
- Town Administrator may temporarily permit use where public safety concerns exist
Sustainability Advisory Board Statement to Town Board 9/8/20 (PDF)
New Castle Proposed Leaf Blower Environmental Protection Law Presentation 7/14/20 (PDF)
LOCAL LAW - New Castle Motorized Leaf Blowers (PDF)