Referendum Has Been Set For
Saturday July 25th 2026
What You Need to Know
What are some concerns about the recently passed gas-powered leaf blower ordinance?
It is arbitrary, over-reaching, and ignores the negative impacts on many town residents:
* The costs of new equipment for landscapers will result in higher property-owner costs, especially for larger properties.
* Landscaping companies had no time to plan for the change, as it was enacted with no “phase-in” period.
* Electric leaf blowers are simply not commercially competitive with gas-powered machines – and will likely require gas-powered generators to re-charge!
It was enacted to address a primary concern about noise and ignores the fact that existing noise ordinances are not thoroughly enforced.
It targets one specific piece of equipment, inconsistently ignoring the fact that there are many other types of lawncare and maintenance equipment with similar sound profiles.
It was enacted based upon support voiced by 2% of the town’s resident taxpayers.
* We need to hear from a much broader range of people before writing a law that impacts everybody.
The exemptions stipulated in it are vague and undefined.
* Terms like “emergency” and “safety” can be broadly interpreted; what one person deems “safe” may not be the same for another.
Enforcement of it will be challenging, at best, and impossible, at worst.
* Police find it very difficult to enforce existing noise ordinances
* It will pit neighbor against neighbor, likely resulting in hundreds of un-responded-to calls to the police.
No exceptions were made for larger properties that require more time to maintain, or houses of worship, hospitals, athletic fields, etc.
Proponents of the ban claim there are serious negative environmental and health impacts from gas-powered leaf blowers, yet they were satisfied with an exemption for use by Town employees – are these people somehow beyond their concern?
Stamford passed a gas-powered leaf blower ban but it will go into effect in November of 2028, not immediately, giving businesses the time to adapt.
In Westport, compliance is enforced by a conservation commission with education and warnings not by neighbors calling the police on each other.
Whether you agree with all the points stated above or not, please sign the petition for referendum to allow the remaining 98% of our community to decide whether the Town really supports this ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this referendum?
A referendum allows voters to approve or reject the gas-powered leaf blower ban.
What happens now that the petition has been filed?
Referendum will take place on Saturday, July 25th 2026 and before that absentee ballots will be available
Who can vote?
Registered New Canaan voters.
Where will I vote?
Voting locations and hours will be announced with the referendum date and will follow the Town’s official election procedures.
Will absentee voting be available?
Yes
How can I help?
You can help by sharing accurate information with friends and neighbors, encouraging eligible voters to participate, and staying engaged as the referendum approaches.