Countywide law began July 1, ending a year-long phaseout and ushering in quieter electric equipment.
After a year of warnings and rebates, Montgomery County’s ban on handheld, backpack, and walk-behind gas-powered leaf blowers officially took effect on July 1, 2025. Homeowners, landscapers, and government crews who ignore the rule now face a $500 citation—part of a broader push to cut emissions, curb noise, and protect workers’ hearing and lungs.
Who needs to switch: understanding who the Montgomery County leaf blower ban affects most
The prohibition covers private yards, commercial properties, and county jobsites alike, leaving only Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery Parks, and agricultural producers exempt. Are you a small landscaping outfit wondering what’s next? The answer is simple: if you work anywhere other than a farm, school, or state-managed park, the gas engine needs to be replaced immediately.
How to claim Montgomery County’s electric leaf blower rebate before supplies run out
To ease the transition, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) opened a limited rebate program on July 1, 2025. Residents and businesses can apply for assistance covering the cost of battery-powered models; landscapers who attended the county’s “Landscaping with Batteries” workshop have already gained tips on maximizing battery life.
Not sure if you qualify? Apply online first—the portal quickly verifies eligibility. Before ordering new gear, keep these deadlines and limits handy:
- July 1, 2024 – Sale of new gas units banned in the county.
- July 1, 2025 – Use of gas-powered blowers became illegal.
- July 15, 2025 – Upcoming public hearing on transition progress.
- Ongoing – Rebate applications accepted until funds are exhausted.
Staying ahead of these dates can spare crews both headaches and hefty fines.
Penalties and noise limits under the new gas-powered leaf blower restrictions and what to expect from enforcement
Fines are just one piece of the enforcement puzzle; sound levels remain strictly regulated as well.
| Requirement | Key figure |
|---|---|
| Fine for first violation | $500 |
| Maximum permitted noise | 70 dB at 50 ft |
| Equipment allowed | Electric or battery-powered only |
| Enforcement agency | Montgomery County DEP |
County inspectors are actively patrolling complaint hotspots, yet officials emphasize education—not punishment—as the first approach. “Our priority is helping every resident and business successfully adapt,” DEP Director Jon Monger stated, highlighting multilingual outreach and rebate assistance.
Ready to trade the roar for a hum? Electric models deliver quieter yards, cleaner air, and immediate compliance with county law. Act now—apply for rebates, retire outdated equipment, and mark July 15 on your calendar to share feedback at the public hearing.