Mat-Su Assembly passes resolution affirming residents' right to use leaf blowers

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly passed a resolution affirming residents' right to use leaf blowers and other outdoor power equipment on their property. The Assembly adopted the measure unanimously at a regular meeting in Palmer. The resolution positions itself as a direct response to Anchorage's enforcement of fugitive dust rules.

The resolution states that borough residents may use leaf blowers for household chores while encouraging courtesy regarding noise, dust, and hours of operation.

Assembly member Maxwell Sumner, a Republican representing District 2, introduced the resolution after Anchorage Public Works posted guidance on how the municipality's air quality code applies to leaf blowers.

"This came about because Anchorage Public Works made a post about how the Anchorage Assembly actually passed a code, an ordinance or a code that made it using leaf blowers to sweep parking lots illegal," Sumner said.

Anchorage officials clarified that residents may use leaf blowers to move clean leaves or light organic material so long as the use does not create prohibited fugitive dust emissions.

Assembly member Bill Gamble, a Republican representing District 5, framed the Mat-Su resolution as a deliberate contrast with Anchorage policy.

"This is the closest thing we can do to the exact opposite of what the Anchorage Assembly did," Gamble said.

The resolution is largely symbolic. It does not create new borough penalties or establish an air quality enforcement program. It is intended to reassure Mat-Su homeowners, landscapers, and small property maintenance businesses that they may continue using leaf blowers without new borough restrictions.