Zurich Residents Vote to Ban Petrol Leaf Blowers, Restrict Electric Models

Zurich Implements Sweeping Ban on Leaf Blowers

In a significant move to curb noise and environmental pollution, residents of Zurich, Switzerland, have voted to ban most leaf blowers and leaf vacuums. The decision, made during a referendum on Sunday, September 28, 2025, saw more than 61% of voters endorse the new regulations. The ban specifically targets petrol-powered devices, which are now fully prohibited in the city. Electric and battery-powered models will face strict seasonal limitations, permitted for use only between October and December.

Details of the New Regulations

The new rules, which apply to both private individuals and municipal employees, represent a partial revision of the city's police ordinance. While petrol-fuelled machines are completely outlawed, electric leaf blowers and vacuums will be restricted to the autumn and early winter months. Exceptions for electric devices outside this period will be granted only under specific circumstances, such as for construction work or cleaning up after major public events like the Street Parade.

Motivations: Noise, Dust, and Ecology

Proponents of the ban, primarily Green and progressive parties, highlighted multiple concerns associated with the widespread use of leaf blowers. Key arguments centered on the significant noise pollution generated by these devices and the dispersal of fine particulate matter and bacteria, which can have negative respiratory and cardiovascular effects. Furthermore, limiting their use is expected to protect the habitats of small creatures, such as birds, lizards, and hedgehogs, that rely on leaf litter for food and shelter.

A Direct Democratic Decision

The vote was the culmination of a long-standing debate, with the local Greens party first seeking a ban in 2013. The initiative that led to the current ban was submitted by the Greens and Social Democrats in 2022. Right-wing parties had challenged the city parliament's initial decision, forcing a referendum under Switzerland's system of direct democracy. Despite their opposition, which characterized the ban as an 'absurd and antisocial culture of bans,' the measure passed with a strong majority. Approximately 52.8% of eligible voters participated in the referendum.