Leaf Blower Rules: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do leaf blower rules rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County Bill 35-20 bans gas-powered leaf blowers countywide effective January 1, 2025, which applies within Gaithersburg. Only battery-electric and corded-electric leaf blowers are permitted. This is one of the most aggressive leaf blower regulations in the Mid-Atlantic region.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County banned gas-powered leaf blowers under Bill 18-22. Sales banned July 2024, all use banned July 2025. Violations carry a $500 citation.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Law | MoCo Bill 35-20 | MoCo Bill 18-22 |
| Gas Blower Ban | Effective Jan 1, 2025 | - |
| Permitted | Battery and corded electric only | - |
| Applies To | Residential and commercial | - |
| First Violation | Written warning | - |
| Sale Ban | - | July 1, 2024 |
| Use Ban | - | July 1, 2025 |
| Fine | - | $500 per violation |
| Exempt | - | Agricultural producers |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Are gas leaf blowers banned in Gaithersburg?
Yes. Montgomery County Bill 35-20 bans all gas-powered leaf blowers countywide as of January 1, 2025. Only battery-electric and corded-electric blowers are allowed.
Does the gas blower ban apply to landscaping companies?
Yes. All commercial landscaping companies operating in Gaithersburg must use electric blowers regardless of where the company is headquartered.
Is there help transitioning to electric blowers?
Montgomery County established a rebate program to assist residents and commercial landscapers with the cost of switching to electric equipment.
Rockville FAQ
Can I use a gas leaf blower in Rockville?
No. As of July 1, 2025, all gas-powered leaf blowers are banned in Montgomery County, which includes Rockville. Only electric battery-powered or corded blowers are permitted.
Are landscaping companies also affected by the ban?
Yes. The ban applies to commercial landscapers operating in residential, commercial, and public spaces. The county offered up to $1,500 in subsidies to help companies purchase electric equipment.
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