Overview

• Zurich residents are casting ballots today on a municipal measure to restrict leaf blowers and leaf vacuums.
• The proposal would ban petrol-powered machines, allow only electric models and confine routine use to October through December, with exceptions outside that window.
• Leaf blowers are currently permitted year-round in Zurich but only during specified hours.
• City materials cite noise, fine particulate pollution and the spread of bacteria from disturbed leaf and soil, advising wetting ground or using respiratory protection during cleaning.
• Opponents call the plan an unnecessary, socially punitive ban and argue that existing penalties for excessive noise already address the issue.