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Noise, Air Pollution Concerns Prompt Potential Leaf Blower Ban In Sunnyvale

SUNNYVALE (KCBS)— Professional gardeners in Sunnyvale could soon have to use rakes and brooms instead of leaf blowers. The city is looking into possibly restricting or banning the lawn maintenance equipment because of numerous complaints and air pollution concerns.

"We've received about 40 complaints over the last couple of years and the council is interested in seeing what we can do to alleviate those concerns," said Melody Tovar, regulatory programs division manager. "These things can come off like a low rumble, particularly in residential areas when they're being used right there on the sidewalk outside a home."

Right now, leaf blowers can only be used between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., but a lot of times those restrictions aren't adhered to, according to Tovar.

Aside from being noisey, Tovar said there are some environmental concerns as well. "It turns out that these gas-powered leaf blowers do emit pollution similar to a vehicle. In fact most of them emit more than a conventional vehicle hour per hour. It is part of our plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to try and reduce the use of these gas-powered leaf blowers," she said.

A public meeting to discuss the issue is scheduled Wednesday 6 to 7 p.m. at the Sunnyvale Community Center.

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