ALEXANDRIA, Va, (7News) — Gas-powered leaf blowers will no longer be allowed in Alexandria, Virginia, beginning Nov. 17, when the city's 18-month phaseout officially ends.

Starting that day, residents and landscaping contractors who use gas-powered leaf blowers within city limits may be cited.

The Alexandria City Council approved the ordinance on May 17, 2025, after months of community meetings and public input.

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The ban already applies to city government operations, which switched to the new policy on May 17, 2026.

City leaders said the ordinance is intended to reduce noise pollution, improve air quality and limit exposure to harmful emissions generated by gas-powered equipment.

Officials are encouraging residents and landscaping companies to use quieter, electric leaf blowers or alternatives such as rakes, brooms, leaf scoops, push-powered lawn sweepers, and leaf plows.

The city also recommends leaving leaves in natural areas when possible or mulching them into lawns to help enrich the soil instead of removing them.