Leaf Blower Regulations

On December 12, 2023, the Village of Northbrook approved a partial ban on gas-powered leaf blowers.

Effective January 1, 2025, a 9-month ban on gas-powered leaf blower use will be in place during the months of December through March and May through September. This allows landscape contractors and residents to use gas-powered leaf blowers during a 4-week spring clean-up window (April 1 to April 30) and an 8-week fall clean-up window (October 1 to November 30). These regulations do not affect the use of electric leaf blowers, including battery-powered and corded options.

Landscape Contractors

Landscape contractors are required to register for an annual contractor business license. The application for the Contractor Business License is available here, and additional resources for contractors in Northbrook can be found here. Completed applications should be emailed to permits@northbrook.il.us. For questions regarding the application process, contact a permit clerk at 847-664-4050.

Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ordinance & Complaint Submission Guide

Ordinance Details

Effective January 1, 2025, the Zoning Administrator within the Development and Planning Services Department (DPS) will oversee complaints regarding the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in Northbrook.

Allowed Use: April, October, and November
Prohibited Use: January–March & May–December

How to Submit a Complaint

Follow these simple steps to report a violation:

Step 1: Visit the Website

Go to www.northbrook.il.us.

Step 2: Access the Complaint Form

Click the "Contact Us" icon.
Click the "GoNorthbrook" icon.
In the search bar, type "Leaf Blowers" or scroll down to "Trees & Landscaping".
Select "Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers" from the list.

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint

Fill out the complaint form with the required details, including the date/time, address and a photo if possible.
Click "Submit" to send your complaint for review.

Electric Leaf Blower Incentive Programs

The Village would like to thank the resident and landscape contractor participants for their interest in and support of the Electric Leaf Blower Incentive Programs. Please note: As of April 30, 2025, the funding for these programs have been allocated. The programs are now closed. At this time, no additional funding is planned. Should future incentives become available, updates will be posted.

For further questions, please contact the Sustainability Coordinator at sustainability@northbrook.il.us.