Leaf Blower Rules: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do leaf blower rules rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Gas-powered leaf blowers are banned within 500 feet of any residence under LAMC 112.04(c). Electric blowers are permitted but restricted to 7 AM-10 PM in residential zones. The ban has been on the books since 1998 though enforcement has historically been limited.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Gas-powered leaf blowers have been banned in Santa Monica since 1991. Only electric blowers with manufacturer sound rating of 70 dB or less are allowed (July 2023 update). Hours: Mon-Fri 8 AM-8 PM. Photo/video evidence accepted for enforcement.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Blowers | Banned within 500 ft of residence | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 112.04(c) | - |
| Electric Blowers | Allowed 7 AM-10 PM | - |
| Fine | Up to $100 per violation | - |
| dB Limit | 65 dB(A) at 50 ft for powered garden tools | - |
| Gas-Powered | - | Banned since 1991 |
| Electric Max | - | 70 dB manufacturer rating |
| Hours | - | Mon-Fri 8 AM - 8 PM |
| Enforcement | - | Photo/video evidence via 311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Are gas leaf blowers illegal in Los Angeles?
Yes. LAMC Section 112.04(c) bans gas-powered blowers within 500 feet of any residence at any time. Only electric blowers meeting the 75 dB limit are permitted.
When can I use electric leaf blowers in LA?
Electric blowers are permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM in residential zones, provided they do not exceed 75 decibels per LAMC Section 112.05.
Santa Monica FAQ
Are gas leaf blowers legal in Santa Monica?
No. Gas-powered leaf blowers are banned. Only electric blowers rated at 70 dBA or less are permitted under SMMC §4.12.180.
What hours can leaf blowers be used in Santa Monica?
Monday through Friday 8 AM to 8 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 8 PM.
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