California AB-1346 banned the sale of new gas-powered leaf blowers and other small off-road engines under 25 horsepower starting 2024, applying across Santa Clara County. Several cities including Palo Alto, Los Altos, and Los Gatos enforce stricter operating bans, while unincorporated areas follow the state floor.
AB-1346 directed CARB to phase out new sales of small off-road engines under 25 horsepower, including handheld leaf blowers, mowers, and chainsaws. The CARB rule took effect 2024 for most equipment, blocking new units at retail though existing tools remain legal to use. Santa Clara County does not impose a countywide operating ban in unincorporated areas, leaving day-to-day enforcement to BAAQMD and individual cities. Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Menlo Park-adjacent stretches, and Los Gatos enforce stricter operating bans within their borders. Battery-electric blowers remain legal everywhere, and rebate programs through BAAQMD's Clean Air Funds help landscapers exchange equipment.
Retailers selling banned new gas equipment face CARB civil penalties up to $25,000 per day. City-level operating violations draw fines from $100 to $500. County-level nuisance enforcement is rare absent a related noise complaint.
Palo Alto, CA
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Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto banned gas-powered leaf blowers citywide in 2005, pre-dating California AB 1346; only electric and battery blowers are legal and restricted to dayt...
See how Palo Alto's gas leaf blower ban rules stack up against other locations.
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