Gas Powered Equipment Ban

Small, gas-powered leaf blowers have highly polluting engines which can result in significant health impacts for the community, but particularly the equipment operators. In addition to smog-forming emissions and toxic fumes, gas-powered leaf blowers also create carbon-dioxide emissions that contribute to the climate challenge. Using a gas-powered backpack leaf blower for just one hour generates the same smog-forming emissions as a car driven for 1,100 miles. This ban will improve air quality, public health, and noise pollution.

Property owners are not exempt from this ordinance.

There are limits on noise generated in residential and commercial areas (SMMC 9.32). For more information, click here.

Yes, at the direction of emergency responders, gas-powered leaf blowers may be used for the purposes of responding to an emergency, or necessary to protect or save lives or property from eminent danger of loss or harm. They can also be used to clear downed trees or vegetation in areas needing expedient clearance when necessary to protect public safety, as authorized by the City. 

You can contact the Code Enforcement Officer at (626) 355-7138 or via email at gsilva@sierramadreca.gov for questions or concerns regarding leaf blower use.