Leaf Blower Rules: Bonsall vs El Cajon
How do leaf blower rules rules compare between Bonsall, CA and El Cajon, CA?
Bonsall has fewer restrictions than El Cajon.
Bonsall, CA
San Diego County
San Diego County does not have a specific leaf blower ban or restriction beyond the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with the 75 dBA construction equipment standard and general noise limits. No ban on gas-powered blowers in unincorporated areas.
View full Bonsall rules →El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon prohibits leaf blower operation between 7 PM and 7 AM within residential zones or 500 feet of them. CA AB 1346 banned the sale of new gas-powered blowers statewide since January 2024.
View full El Cajon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | El Cajon |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Ban | None — general noise limits apply | - |
| Day Limit | 50 dBA at residential property line | - |
| Night Limit | 45 dBA (10 PM–7 AM) | - |
| State Law | AB 1346 phases out new gas engine sales | - |
| Code | County Code §36.404 | ECMC Ch. 9.44 |
| Prohibited | - | 7 PM-7 AM residential |
| Gas Ban | - | AB 1346 (Jan 2024 sales) |
| Buffer | - | 500 ft from residential |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bonsall FAQ
Are gas leaf blowers banned in unincorporated San Diego County?
No. The county has not banned gas-powered leaf blowers. However, California's AB 1346 (effective 2024) prohibits the sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines, which will gradually phase out new gas blowers statewide.
When can I use a leaf blower in unincorporated San Diego County?
You can use leaf blowers during daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM) as long as the noise does not exceed the applicable zone limits at the property line. Nighttime use would likely exceed the 45 dBA limit.
Can my HOA restrict leaf blower use?
Yes. HOAs in unincorporated areas may impose additional restrictions on leaf blower use beyond what the county code requires, including specific hours or equipment types.
El Cajon FAQ
When can I use a leaf blower in El Cajon?
7 AM to 7 PM within residential zones or 500 feet of them. The noise must not be unreasonable for the area.
Are gas leaf blowers banned?
Sale of new gas-powered leaf blowers is banned statewide since January 2024 under AB 1346. Existing units may still be used during permitted hours.
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