San Diego, CA Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Weekday Hours
- 8 AM-7 PM
- Weekend Hours
- 9 AM-5 PM
- Max dBA
- 65 dBA at 50 feet
- Gas Ban
- AB 1346 (Jan 2024 sales)
- Code Section
- SDMC 59.5.0502(b)
Summary
SDMC Section 59.5.0502(b) restricts leaf blower use in residential zones: prohibited 7 PM to 8 AM weekdays and 5 PM to 9 AM weekends/holidays. Maximum 65 dBA at 50 feet. California AB 1346 banned sale of new gas-powered leaf blowers effective January 1, 2024.
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.
Full Breakdown
Under SDMC 59.5.0502(b), no person may operate a leaf blower in any residential zone between 7 PM and 8 AM on weekdays, or between 5 PM and 9 AM on weekends and legal holidays. Sound level may not exceed 65 dBA measured at a distance of 50 feet or greater from the point of origin. This limit has been in effect since July 1, 1993. California AB 1346 (2021) banned the sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines, including leaf blowers, effective January 1, 2024. Existing gas blowers remain legal to use but are subject to the same noise and time restrictions. Battery and electric blowers must still comply with hour restrictions and decibel limits.
Violations & Fines
Citation and fine for operating outside permitted hours or exceeding noise limits. Gas-powered blower sales enforcement handled by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Frequently Asked Questions
When can leaf blowers be used in San Diego?
Are gas leaf blowers banned in San Diego?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
How San Diego compares: Cities with the Strictest Leaf Blower Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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Leaf Blower Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle leaf blower rules.