Marblehead’s seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers is now in effect. The ban runs Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The ban was approved at the 2022 Town Meeting after several years of debate.
The first violation results in a written violation. The second violation comes with a $100 fine. For the third and any violation after, a fine of $200 will be issued. Each violation shall constitute a separate violation. Homeowners are responsible for the fees.
Here is the language of the bylaw:
“Prohibition: A. Use of gas power leaf blowers “GPLB” shall be prohibited in the Town of Marblehead from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year. Such leaf blowers shall be permitted during the remainder of the year, subject to such other general rules of the Town are in effect from time to time. B. A representative chosen by the Select Board may implement the use of GPLB’s gas powered leaf blowers in a Town emergency situation at any time.
Enforcement: A. The Marblehead Police Department and the Marblehead Health Department and their respective designees (“Enforcing Authority”) shall have the authority to administer and enforce any violation of this bylaw. B. The property owner upon whose property the violation shall have occurred shall be responsible for compliance with this bylaw. All warnings and fines shall be issued to the property owner. C. In the event the Enforcing Authority witnesses a violation hereof, the Enforcing Authority shall require the person in violation to immediately cease using the gas power leaf blower. C. The following penalties shall apply: For the first violation, a written warning shall be issued. For the second violation a fine of $100 shall be issued. For the third and any violation thereafter a fine of $200 shall be issued. Each violation shall constitute a separate violation.”
