Huntington Leaf Blower Ban Stirs Opposition

By Leader Staff

The recently passed ban by the Town of Huntington on gas powered leaf blowers has ignited a firestorm of opposition and petition campaigns to reverse the Town Board's vote.

As of press time, nearly 3,000 Huntington residents have signed an online Petition at Change.org to "STOP the 2026 Gas Leaf Blower Ban" (https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-2026-gas-leaf-blower-ban?signed=true)

Beginning on January 1, 2026, gas powered leaf blowers will be banned from use on all residential properties in Huntington by commercial landscapers - and by homeowners on their own properties.  

"We’ve been talking about a ban for several years," stated Supervisor Ed Smyth, who had proposed the ban. "I think it’s time to set a timetable where residents and commercial landscapers can find alternatives."

Critics explained however that there are no viable "alternatives" - with one landscaper explaining that he would have to charge over 200 batteries each night in order to run leaf blowers the next day. 

Homeowners and commercial landscaping companies face stiff fines - potentially thousands of dollars.

"As a homeowner who takes pride in maintaining my own property, I believe I should have the right to choose the tools I use, including gas-powered leaf blowers," posted Richard of Huntington. "These tools are essential for efficiency and effectiveness, especially during peak landscaping seasons.

"The argument about noise pollution feels weak, particularly when the work is done during the day on weekdays when most people are at work or school."

"Restricting the use of gas blowers unfairly penalizes homeowners who manage their own landscaping without relying on commercial services," added Richard. "This decision unnecessarily limits personal freedom and imposes additional costs on those who may need to purchase new equipment."

"I'm 72 years old and rely on a powerful gas blower to keep my property cleaned up. Even with the blower it takes me 30 hours to gather up all my leaves which I compost around my yard," posted Michael, a Huntington resident. "Electric blowers do not have the power needed for such a job - not yet. Why not allow owners to make the switch WHEN THE TECHNOLOGY IS GOOD ENOUGH ?"

Councilwoman Brooke Lupinacci has pledged to revisit the ban, in light of the strong and vocal opposition from thousands of Huntington residents.