North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and members of the town board are reminding residents and landscaping companies that the town’s new landscaping regulations are now in effect as of June 15.
The new regulations, passed at the January 29, 2019 town board meeting, are aimed at reducing noise and air pollution caused by gas-powered leaf blowers. Under the new regulations, commercial landscapers will be prohibited from using gas-powered leaf blowers from June 15 to September 15.
Under the updated regulations, commercial landscaping is permitted between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and no operation on Sundays and holidays. These restrictions may be suspended during emergencies.
Restrictions will not apply to use at golf courses and cemeteries, except when equipment is operated within 100 feet of a lot containing a residence.
The supervisor established a Landscaper Advisory Committee in 2017 to help craft the new regulations and to advise the town board on landscaping matters. The town made it a priority to build a well-rounded committee to ensure compromise between all interested parties.
The Landscaper Advisory Committee, which met several times over the course of a year, consisted of informed passionate residents, individuals who strongly advocate for environmental causes, the president of the Nassau Suffolk Landscape Grounds Association, landscaping company owners, a horticulturist and a landscaping equipment representative.
Landscaping Regulations
Other regulations included in the new “Landscaping and Gardening” code:
- Leaves, grass, etc. may not be deposited on public property or another person’s private property.
- If leaves and clippings are removed from the site, such removal must be in vehicle secured with a tarp.
- No spillage or dumping of oil or gas products.
- No burning of waste, leaves, cuttings, etc.
- Licensing regulations: Commercial landscapers must have a valid license issued by the Nassau County Office of Consumer Affairs.
- The commercial landscapers must also be permitted by the Town Clerk. There is a fee, but a reduced fee for applicants with receipts showing the purchase of five or more pieces of battery or electric-powered landscaping equipment.
- If a landscaper is permitted by a village within the town, that will be accepted.
Suspension/revocation/denial of license:
- False statements on the application, error in issuance or failure to comply with regulations or statutes can result in suspension or revocation of license.
- One year waiting period to reapply for a license following revocation or denial of license.
- Penalties for offenses include fines and/or jail time or both.
For more information, call the town’s 311 Call Center.
—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead
