Gainesville, FL Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)

Section 15-3(d)(7) prohibits operating or permitting the operation of any mechanically, electrically or gasoline motor-driven tool during nighttime hours so as to cause a noise disturbance. schedule. daytime window without triggering this section, so long as the sound does not separately exceed the Table II decibel limits in Section 15-3(c). A 'noise disturbance' under Section 15-2 means sound that either exceeds the chapter's decibel limits or is 'plainly audible' from 200 feet or more away. Enforcement follows the standard Chapter 15 track: a designated official who confirms a nighttime power tool violation issues a written warning under Section 15-6(a)(1), the operator then gets a reasonable time (15 minutes for stationary or handheld emitters) to stop, and failure to comply, or resumption of the noise, results in a citation.

Penalties run under Section 1-9 or Section 2-339, with each instance treated as a separate offense under Section 15-7(a) and possible confiscation of the equipment after a third conviction within 12 months under Section 15-7(b).