Santa Ana, CA Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- AB 1346
- Phaseout year
- 2024 sales ban
- Existing equipment
- Still legal to use
- Engine size
- Under 25 HP
Summary
California AB 1346 phases out new sales of gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and other small off-road engines starting 2024, pushing Santa Ana landscapers toward electric or battery-powered equipment.
43018.11. (a) (1) By July 1, 2022, the state board shall, consistent with federal law, 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. Those regulations shall apply to engines produced on or after January 1, 2024, or as soon as the state board determines is feasible, whichever is later. [...] Small off-road engines (SORE), which are used primarily in lawn and garden equipment, emit high levels of air pollutants [...] one hour of operation of a commercial leaf blower can emit as much ROG plus NOx as driving 1,100 miles in a new passenger vehicle.
Full Breakdown
California Assembly Bill 1346, signed in 2021, directs CARB to prohibit new sales of small off-road gasoline engines under 25 horsepower, including leaf blowers, mowers, and pressure washers. Equipment already owned can still be used, but retailers cannot sell new units. Santa Ana's noise ordinance separately limits leaf-blower hours, and the City has explored equipment-buyback incentives for landscapers transitioning to battery models. Commercial gardeners working in residential zones must follow both rules.
Violations & Fines
Retailer sales violations enforced by CARB. Local noise-ordinance breaches cited by Code Enforcement; fines starting around $100 escalating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my old gas blower?
Does Santa Ana have rebates?
Sources & Official References
- [1]CA AB 1346
Other rules in Santa Ana
How Santa Ana compares: Cities with the Strictest Leaf Blower Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Ana to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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Leaf Blower Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle leaf blower rules.