For a greener, safer san mateo
Quiet Landscaping in San Mateo
The Problem
Gas powered leaf blowers inflict large public pain for a small private gain. They use 19th century technology that disturbs the peace while spewing a host of harmful toxins and pollutants into our neighborhoods. It’s like lead in gasoline: it was never necessary, but it was allowed to poison our communities for decades.
Worker Safety
Using gas-powered leaf blowers places landscaping workers at high risk for hearing loss, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Air Pollution
Gas-powered leaf blowers spew unfiltered exhaust containing unburned gas and oil, carbon monoxide, acetaldehyde, benzene, formaldehyde, 1,3-butadiene and other hazardous chemicals into our air.
Extreme Noise
Gas-powered leaf blowers operate at 90 – 100 decibels, and their low-frequency noise penetrates doors and windows. This loud, persistent noise is a serious health hazard.
the combustion engine-powered leaf blower… [has] a net negative effect on human health and climate mitigation efforts compared with their electric analogs. [Its] ongoing use is therefore unjustifiable, warranting a citywide ban and replacement with battery-powered machines
Oakland Municipal Code Chapter 8.64
The Solution
Clean Power
Landscapes were well maintained before gas-powered leaf blowers took over our neighborhoods. Many pro landscapers know they’re not a necessary tool, and by using clean alternatives to leaf blowers in their clients’ yards, they’re cultivating thriving landscapes with just as much curb appeal, but also richer soil, healthier ecology, and less need for watering and fertilizer.
Bottom line–these clean alternatives produce better results and healthier neighborhoods.
Why hasn’t San Mateo Banned Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers?
According to San Mateo Mayor Lisa Diaz-Nash, “…San Mateo prides itself on being a leader in sustainability and environmental actions as I said tonight to make our city thrive today and tomorrow… we are committed to build a city for our children and that means making sure our air is clean, our water is clean…”
Further, the 2020 San Mateo Climate Action Plan, adopted by the San Mateo City Council, states that “[s]hifting to alternative fuel equipment across the community promotes healthier air for all residents due to the reduction in gasoline or diesel fumes. This is especially important for sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic respiratory disease.” According to the San Mateo Climate Action Plan, switching to clean fuel lawn and garden equipment would see a 3,550 metric ton (MTCO2e) reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030.
Yet, the San Mateo City Council has opposed the transition to quieter, safer electric-powered leaf blowers, and it created a carve out: by law, gas-powered leaf blowers can be used all day, 6 days a week. Why?
The City of San Mateo answered that in its February 12, 2024 State of the City Q & A:
“The City Council has discussed leaf blower regulations many times over the years and decided not to pursue regulations due to the financial concerns for small landscaping business and substantial enforcement challenges of new regulations.“
That is nonsense. First, small landscaping businesses have the most to gain from a gas-powered leaf blower ban, both in their workers’ health and to their bottom line. Second, a gas-powered leaf blower ban can be effectively and efficiently enforced with citizen affidavits.
Apparently, the San Mateo City Council is ready to reconsider it opposition to the transition to safer, quieter electric-powered leaf blowers. Mayor Diaz-Nash has asked her colleagues to take up this critical public safety issue in 2025. Quiet Clean San Mateo is currently working with the San Mateo City Council on that review, but we need your help. Please contact your City Council representative and ask them to support a safer, quieter San Mateo!
Join Forces to Create Change
Get involved in the movement to bring about safer working conditions and quieter neighborhoods. Stand alongside passionate activists who are striving to make San Mateo a safer, more inviting place to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can landscapers still make money with alternative tools?
Yes. In fact, they will see greater profits.
Aren’t gas-powered leaf blowers already banned in California?
No. California has banned only the sale of new 2-stroke gasoline engines. Without further action, gas-powered leaf blowers will plague our communities for many years to come.
How can landscapers pay for new tools?
The City of San Mateo is offering electric leaf blower rebates. There are also many financing options available, and alternative tools quickly pay for themselves via lower operating costs.
How will a gas-powered leaf blower ban impact low-income landscaping workers?
Gas-powered leaf blowers are most harmful to the workers who use them. Resisting circumstances that primarily harm low-income, often immigrant workers is a primary reason to ban gas-powered leaf blowers.
Will a gas-powered leaf blower ban increase landscaping service prices?
Is a convenient yard service worth endangering workers and ignoring the City of San Mateo’s climate goals?