Berkeley bans gasoline-powered leaf blowers citywide for both residents and commercial landscapers, aligned with California AB 1346 phase-out of small off-road gas engines.
BMC Chapter 13.40 prohibits the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers anywhere in Berkeley, regardless of decibel rating or time of day. The ordinance predates and complements California AB 1346, which by 2026 prohibits the sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines including blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws. Enforcement is handled by Code Enforcement and the Police Department on complaint. Battery-electric blowers remain allowed but are still subject to noise quiet-hours rules. Landscapers must transition fleets and may apply for limited CARB rebates funded through state appropriations.
First offense generally results in a written warning; subsequent violations carry administrative citations starting around $100 and escalating to $500 for repeat commercial operators.
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