Austin does not ban gas leaf blowers, but their use is governed by the general noise ordinance in City Code Chapter 9-2. Leaf blower operation is restricted during nighttime hours and must not exceed residential decibel limits, with enforcement by Austin Code and APD.
The City of Austin does not have a dedicated leaf blower ordinance like Washington D.C. or many California cities. Instead, leaf blowers fall under Austin City Code Chapter 9-2 (Noise and Amplified Sound), which prohibits sound that is plainly audible across property lines between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM in residential districts (10:00 AM on weekends). Landscaping equipment including leaf blowers, mowers, and trimmers must not be operated during these nighttime hours. During permitted hours, the general residential decibel limit of 75 dB(A) at the property line applies, though construction and landscaping work receives some latitude. Commercial landscapers operating in residential zones should aim to start no earlier than 7:00 AM weekdays and 10:00 AM Saturdays and Sundays. The Austin City Council has discussed a gas leaf blower phase-out several times but as of 2026 no ban is in effect. Complaints route to Austin 311 (dial 3-1-1) or APD non-emergency at 512-974-5000. Repeat violations can result in citations under Chapter 9-2 carrying fines up to $500 per offense.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Austin code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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