La Mesa, CA Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)

Section 10.80.101 sets citywide hours of use for landscaping power equipment, a term Section 10.80.020(r) defines to include any leaf blower, wood chipper, lawn mower, electric trimmer, chain saw, lawn edger, weed whacker, pressure washer or similar equipment used to maintain landscapes or hardscape areas. It is unlawful to operate that equipment between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. during Pacific Standard Time, or between 8:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. during Pacific Daylight Saving Time, so the evening cutoff shifts an hour later once daylight saving begins.

Beyond the clock restriction, all landscaping power equipment must also conform to the zone-specific noise ceilings fixed in Section 10.80.040, meaning a gas leaf blower operated during permitted daytime hours can still violate the code if it exceeds the 50 to 70 decibel ambient limits that apply by zone and time of day. As with other Chapter 10.80 provisions, no permit is required to perform emergency work as defined in Section 10.80.020(c). A companion provision, Section 10.80.102, applies the same Section 10.80.040 noise ceiling, without the fixed evening cutoff, to broader maintenance power equipment such as power drills, sanders and nail guns used within a residential area or within 500 feet of one.

Section 10.80.103 separately requires anyone landscaping an outdoor area to legally dispose of accumulated dirt, debris, leaves and grass clippings. Violations of Section 10.80.101 are infractions under the general penalty clause, Section 1.01.080, enforced by the La Mesa Police Department, with a fine of up to $250 per offense.