Gas leaf blowers now banned in Miami Beach and South Miami

Gas-powered leaf blowers are now banned in Miami Beach and South Miami after city officials took issue with the air pollution and noise they emit.

Why it matters: They are the latest municipalities to ban the gas-guzzling garden gadgets and encourage electric-powered leaf blowers after Key Biscayne in 2018 and Naples in 2021.

Catch up fast: Miami Beach and South Miami adopted their bans in early 2022 but delayed enforcement to educate the public and issue warnings.

Threat level: First violations now carry a $250 fine.

• In Miami Beach, second and third violations in the same year are $500 and $1,000, respectively. In South Miami, second and subsequent violations are $500.
• Landscapers and homeowners can apply for a financial hardship waiver to be exempt from the laws.