Leaf Blower Rules: San Francisco vs Seattle
How do leaf blower rules rules compare between San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than San Francisco.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
San Francisco restricts gas-powered leaf blowers under Police Code Article 29 and state AB 1346, which bans the sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines statewide. SF Public Works and contractors have transitioned to electric blowers, and noise from any blower must comply with the SF Noise Ordinance decibel limits.
View full San Francisco rules →Seattle, WA
King County
King County does not impose specific leaf blower restrictions beyond the general noise limits in KCC 12.86 and WAC 173-60. Residential yard maintenance is exempt during daytime hours (7 AM-10 PM weekdays).
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Permitted Hours | - | 7 AM - 10 PM weekdays |
| Weekend Hours | - | 9 AM - 10 PM Sat/Sun |
| Day Limit | - | 55 dBA at property line |
| Night Limit | - | 45 dBA 10 PM-7 AM |
| Code | - | KCC 12.86, WAC 173-60 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Francisco FAQ
Seattle FAQ
Are gas-powered leaf blowers banned in unincorporated King County?
No. Unlike some California cities, King County has not banned gas-powered leaf blowers. They are permitted during daytime hours subject to general noise limits.
Can I use a leaf blower on Sunday morning?
Yes, though the plainly audible standard still applies. Most residents wait until 9 AM on weekends to avoid neighbor complaints even though the 7 AM weekday start applies.
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