Clients demand neat and well-manicured landscapes, and leaf blowers are an important tool for landscape professionals. But they’re not always welcome by the neighbors. In Monterey County, Calif., a city commission recently raised concerns that leaf blowers are sources of air and noise pollution. The commission reacted sensibly by recommending education about best practices instead of enacting a citywide ban. Still, leaf blower bans exist in many communities.

In this case, a good offense is the best defense. Here’s what you can do:
-Run leaf blowers at half throttle most of the time. Low throttle speeds significantly reduce noise, and they also provide the operator with maximum control. Full throttle is seldom necessary.
-Don’t use blowers in residential areas when people are likely to be disturbed.
-Don’t use blowers within 10 feet of doors or windows.
-Operate only one blower at a time on small residential sites.
-Use rakes or brooms to loosen heavier debris and don’t use blowers to move large debris piles.
-Use the full nozzle extension to keep the air stream close to the ground.

In the past decade, manufacturers have responded to this issue by developing quieter gas-powered blowers and making battery-powered options that don’t raise emissions concerns.

By using best practices and the best equipment, you can help to ensure communities get behind their local landscape companies instead of fighting them.