SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — After controversy from some residents, the Southampton Town Board voted Tuesday in favor of a resolution that puts the brakes on gas-powered leaf blowers during the summer months.
Under the legislation, sponsored by Southampton City Councilor John Bouvier, there is a seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers from May 20 to September 20.
Gas blowers can be used within the unincorporated parts of the city of Southampton from September 21 until May 19, but must comply with regulations, including only operating between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays and not used at all on Sundays or federal holidays, the legislation states.
Additionally, gas-powered leaf blowers may not be used unless the property being cleared is larger than half an acre. And no more than two total gas-powered handheld or backpack leaf blowers may be used at the same time unless the property being cleared is larger than half an acre.
City officials praised the measure. “The passage of this legislation is another step toward the City of Southampton's sustainability goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and respond to protecting the quality of life for our residents,” said Bouvier “I want to thank the members of the sustainability committee us for working hard to implement this legislation.”
The city's sustainability committee supported the law, citing the negative effects of gas leaf blowers on the environment, reducing greenhouse emissions, health and quality of life.
Dieter von Lehsten, co-chair of the sustainability committee, said: “The committee is pleased to report that a four-year effort to put a law on the books restricting the use of gas blowers during the summer months has finally come to an end. fruition. Southampton now joins many of our municipal neighbors with a similar law. We thank the city council for their constructive help and vote to make this possible for the betterment of our environment and quality of life.”
Some protested the measure, citing concerns about the impact on small business owners and the cost of electrical equipment.
The new law comes into effect immediately after it is filed with the Secretary of State, with a grace period until September 20.
