Larimer County, CO Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowed hours
- 7 a.m.–8 p.m. (Fort Collins)
- Equipment dB ceiling
- Under 85 dB(A) at line
- Applies to
- Domestic/lawn & garden tools
- County exemption
- None equipment-specific
- Snow blowers
- Exempt if muffled
Summary
Fort Collins exempts leaf blowers and other lawn/garden power tools only when used 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. and generating under 85 dB(A) at a residential property line. Outside those limits they must meet the general noise caps.
Noise from domestic power tools and lawn and garden equipment operated between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., provided that such tools or equipment generate less than eighty-five (85) dB(A) at or within any real property line of a residential property.
Full Breakdown
Fort Collins Municipal Code § 20-25(4) exempts noise from domestic power tools and lawn and garden equipment operated between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., provided the equipment generates less than 85 dB(A) at or within any residential real property line. A leaf blower run before 7 a.m., after 8 p.m., or exceeding 85 dB(A) at the line loses the exemption and can be a noise disturbance. Unincorporated Larimer County has no equipment-specific exemption; landscaping noise there is judged against the residential 55/50 db(A) limits and the reasonableness standard.
Violations & Fines
Fort Collins: summons under § 20-29 (penalty per § 1-15). County: $30/$60/$300 escalating fines under Ordinance 97-03.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a leaf blower on Sunday morning in Fort Collins?
Are gas leaf blowers banned in Larimer County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Larimer County
How Larimer County compares: Cities with the Strictest Leaf Blower Rules·Compare Larimer County to another location·View the Colorado noise ordinances overview
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