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Hayward, CA Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

State Law
AB 1346 bans new gas SORE sales
Effective
January 1, 2024
Residential Hours
7 AM to 7 PM weekdays
Saturday
8 AM to 6 PM typical
Sunday
Prohibited residential

Summary

California AB 1346 bans sales of new gas leaf blowers since January 1, 2024. Hayward also limits blower use to daytime hours in residential zones.

This bill would require the state board, by July 1, 2022, consistent with federal law, to adopt cost-effective and technologically feasible regulations to prohibit engine exhaust and evaporative emissions from new small off-road engines, as defined by the state board. The bill would require the state board to identify and, to the extent feasible, make available funding for commercial rebates or similar incentive funding as part of any updates to existing applicable funding program guidelines to local air pollution control districts and air quality management districts to implement to support the transition to zero-emission small off-road equipment operations. Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Approp

Source: CARB AB 1346 InformationView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

Under California AB 1346 (signed 2021, effective 2024), the sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines (SOREs) including leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and generators under 25 horsepower is prohibited statewide. Existing gas blowers may still be used but CARB incentive programs encourage electric replacement. In Hayward, leaf blower operation is restricted to daytime hours under HMC Chapter 4 Article 7. Commercial landscaping is typically limited to 7 AM to 7 PM weekdays and 8 AM to 6 PM Saturdays, with no Sunday use in residential areas. Blowers must meet manufacturer decibel ratings and not create sustained noise above 65 dBA at property line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my existing gas leaf blower?
Yes, AB 1346 only bans new sales; existing equipment may still be operated during allowed hours.
Are electric blowers exempt from hour restrictions?
No, electric blowers are quieter but still subject to the same hour restrictions in residential zones.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Hayward

All Hayward rules

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