A "leaf blower" is any portable, handheld or backpack-style power equipment, powered by fuel or electricity, and used in landscape or property maintenance for blowing, removing or redistributing leaves, dust, dirt, clippings, litter and any other debris.
The Ordinance seeks to address concerns about air quality and noise produced by leaf blowers. As such, leaf blowers must meet current EPA emissions standards and the sound they emit cannot exceed 65 decibels (per manufacturer’s rating).
Only one leaf blower may be used in parcels of 10,000 square feet or smaller. Larger parcels may only use one leaf blower within each 10,000 square foot area.
The following schedule has been developed in consideration of both landscaping needs and neighborhood quality of life.
Dates Permitted
March 15 – June 15;
September 15 – December 31
Dates Prohibited
January 1 – March 14;
June 16 – September 14;
all Sundays and Legal holidays, except for Indigenous Peoples' Day and Veterans Day
Hours of Use (during permitted dates)
Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Indigenous Peoples' Day: 12 noon – 5:00 p.m.
Veteran’s Day: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This Ordinance applies to all residents, businesses, and property owners in Cambridge. However, commercial operators and large property owners should be aware of particular sections that apply only to them.
Commercial operators (any entity or organization that employs 2 or more employees, excluding municipal operators and contractors) are prohibited from use of leaf blower equipment unless they submit an operations plan, which is approved by the City Manager.
Owners of large properties may be eligible for an exemption to operate leaf blowers during summer months and on Sundays and Holidays under certain circumstances.