On Tuesday, the Montgomery County Council is expected to vote on Expedited Bill 30-25, which would remove the requirement for photographic evidence in complaints about gas-powered leaf blower use and clarify that a single complaint can initiate enforcement of the county’s ban.
The legislation aims to address privacy and safety concerns raised by the Transportation and Environment Committee about residents photographing workers. The county’s ban on handheld, backpack, and walk-behind gas-powered leaf blowers took effect on July 1, 2025, applying to private property owners, businesses, and local government. It does not extend to Montgomery County Public Schools or Montgomery Parks, which are under state management. Violators are subject to a $500 fine.
Per Montgomery County Government: “ The Council is expected to vote on Expedited Bill 30-25, Noise Control – Leaf Removal Equipment – Enforcement Procedures. Expedited Bill 30-25 would modify enforcement procedures by repealing the requirement for photographic evidence in complaints of gas-powered leaf blower use and clarify that a single complaint may initiate enforcement of the gas-powered leaf blower ban.
The ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in the County took effect on July 1, 2025. At a meeting held on July 24, the Transportation and Environment (TE) Committee discussed Bill 19-25, Noise Control – Leaf Removal Equipment – Seasonal Exemption, which was introduced on June 17. During deliberation of the bill, the committee raised concerns about the unintended consequences of requiring a photo to accompany a leaf blower noise complaint. Residents taking photos of workers presents a chilling effect for many landscapers. The bill is intended to address this concern.
Currently, under Section 31B-9(j) of the Montgomery County Code, an individual who witnesses a violation may send a complaint to the director of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), but the complaint must include photographic evidence of the person violating the noise law. The director has the discretion whether to proceed with any penalty or citation against the violator.
The lead sponsors of Expedited Bill 30-25 are Councilmember Glass, Council President Stewart and Councilmembers Balcombe and Albornoz. Councilmembers Dawn Luedtke, Sidney Katz, Laurie-Anne Sayles, Natali Fani-González and Friedson are cosponsors of Expedited Bill 30-25. The Council’s TE Committee recommends enactment.”
