Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers

Gas-powered leaf blowers have become a symbol of suburban landscaping, but their days may be numbered. Several cities and states across the U.S.

have already passed bans or severe restrictions on these noisy machines. Their two-stroke engines emit high levels of pollution—up to 300 times more than a pickup truck, according to the California Air Resources Board.

That’s not just bad for the planet; it’s bad for your lungs, too. In 2024, California officially began phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers, and other states are now considering similar measures.

Neighbors fed up with the 90-decibel racket have pushed for local bans, pointing out the health risks, especially for children and the elderly. If you love the sound of a peaceful backyard, you’re not alone—experts predict many communities will follow suit by 2026.

Chemical Weed Killers

Chemical weed killers, especially those containing glyphosate, are under heavy scrutiny. In 2023, the European Union announced tighter restrictions, and the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency has faced lawsuits over the safety of popular brands like Roundup. Studies from the International Agency for Research on Cancer linked glyphosate to potential cancer risks, sparking panic and lawsuits.

Several municipalities, such as Miami Beach and Seattle, have already banned or severely limited the use of these products in residential areas. Experts predict that nationwide bans could be on the horizon, especially as organic gardening trends surge.

Homeowners could soon have to swap chemical sprays for manual weeding or natural alternatives.

Single-Use Propane Barbecue Canisters

Backyard barbecues may never be the same if single-use propane canisters get the boot. These little green tanks are super convenient, but they’re also a nightmare for landfills.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, millions end up in dumps every year, leaking hazardous gas or chemicals. In 2024, California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery began implementing a ban on single-use propane canisters in state parks, urging a shift to refillable options.

Other states, inspired by this move, are now considering similar restrictions for residential use. If you have a stash in your garage, it might be time to rethink how you grill for your next cookout.

Plastic Garden Hoses

Plastic garden hoses are everywhere, but growing concerns over microplastic pollution might soon make them a thing of the past. Research from the University of Newcastle in 2024 found that the average hose leaches thousands of microplastic particles into soil and water with each use.

Not only does this pollute your garden, but it also contaminates local waterways. Some European countries have already proposed bans on non-biodegradable hoses, and U.S.

lawmakers are discussing similar measures, especially as studies reveal the long-term impacts on food safety and biodiversity. Eco-friendly alternatives, like natural rubber hoses, are quickly gaining popularity as a result.

Insect Foggers and Sprayers

Insect foggers and chemical sprayers promise a pest-free backyard, but at what cost? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a 2024 report showing an uptick in hospital visits for respiratory issues linked to backyard pesticide foggers.

Additionally, these tools contribute to the dramatic decline in bee and butterfly populations, according to a 2024 study from the Xerces Society. Many cities have started restricting or banning the use of certain foggers, pushing for safer, targeted pest control methods instead.

If you rely on these tools for mosquito season, prepare for stricter regulations in the near future.

Pressure Washers with High Water Use

Pressure washers are a favorite for cleaning patios and decks, but their water-guzzling ways may put them on the chopping block. The U.S.

Drought Monitor reports that more than 40% of the country faced drought conditions in 2024. As a result, states like Arizona and Nevada are reviewing bans on high-flow pressure washers, especially during peak summer months.

Newer models with water-saving features are being promoted, but the traditional high-powered versions may soon be restricted to commercial use only. If you’re thinking about a backyard deep clean, it might be time to look for eco-friendly alternatives.

Fire Pits and Wood-Burning Outdoor Heaters

Fire pits and wood-burning heaters set the mood for cozy backyard nights, but they’re also a leading cause of air pollution. According to the American Lung Association, residential wood burning accounts for nearly 30% of fine particle pollution in some urban areas.

In 2025, several cities in the Pacific Northwest began banning outdoor wood-burning appliances during high pollution days, and some are considering year-round bans. This has sparked heated debates between homeowners and environmental advocates.

If your backyard gatherings revolve around a crackling fire, you may soon need to swap logs for cleaner alternatives like propane or electric heaters.

Non-Native Grass Seed Mixes

Lush, green lawns are a staple of the suburban dream, but the seeds you plant could soon be regulated. Non-native grass varieties, especially those that guzzle water and require chemical fertilizers, are increasingly viewed as environmental threats.

According to a 2024 report by the National Wildlife Federation, non-native lawns consume up to 40% more water and contribute to nutrient runoff, leading to algae blooms and waterway pollution. States like Nevada and parts of Colorado have already passed bans on certain grass mixes in new developments, encouraging native and drought-tolerant alternatives instead.