Madison limits the hours and days when gas-powered leaf blowers may operate and supports a transition to electric equipment for city crews, citing noise, fine-particulate emissions, and Climate Action Plan goals as the basis.
Under the noise and nuisance provisions of the Madison General Ordinances, gas-powered leaf blowers are restricted to daytime hours and prohibited on Sundays and holidays in many residential districts. The Parks Division and contractors on city work increasingly use battery-electric blowers, and the Sustainability office offers rebates or pilot programs for landscapers. While Madison has not enacted a full ban, the Common Council has directed staff to study a phaseout consistent with peer cities. Wisconsin does not preempt local equipment rules, so Madison may further tighten restrictions through future ordinance amendments after public hearing.
Operating a gas leaf blower outside permitted hours or on prohibited days is a noise violation carrying $100-$500 per offense, with daily forfeitures possible for landscapers operating without compliance.
Madison, WI
Madison restricts unnecessary motor-vehicle idling, particularly for diesel trucks and buses near schools, hospitals, and residential buildings, to reduce pa...
Madison, WI
Leaf blowers in Madison are permitted during standard daytime hours (7 AM to 7 PM typical) under MGO Chapter 24 noise standards. The city has discussed but n...
See how Madison's gas leaf blower ban rules stack up against other locations.
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