A Fairfax man is leading a crusade against leaf blowers in Marin County, and so far he's been successful.

Douglas Green said he's sick and tired of noisy leaf blowers waking him up at 8 or 9 a.m. every Wednesday morning.

"It's like a chainsaw running constantly," he said.

The 71-year-old said the fumes and dust aggravate his pulmonary disease.

"I have trouble breathing all the time," he added.

His frustration fueled a campaign to ban gas-powered yard blowers and he started talking to anyone who'd listen -- outside stores and on the street.

Within a few weeks his petition had more than 1,300 supporters.

"There are so many people that hate this vile machine," he said. "I found it so easy to collect signatures."

"I think they're too noisy and make too much of a mess," said Fairfax resident John D'Amato. "I'd like to see them go away."

Many gardeners and landscapers told KTVU they consider leaf blowers an essential tool. They're willing to abide by regulations on when they can be used, but said an outright ban would drastically increase costs for consumers.

"Leaf blowers are a very important part of our industry," said James Fenton of Heritage Landscapes. "I mean, we can reduce four hours of labor to 15 minutes."

Green took his petition to the last Fairfax council meeting.

Town leaders said they're researching the issue and planning a public hearing in January or February.

"If we get rid of these things and start using the rake like we used to do it would be much better for the planet," said Fairfax resident Douglas Green.

Green said the issue of banning or restricting leaf blowers is also being taken up by the county.