Saint Helena, CA

St. Helena, California, bans some leaf blowers, will start enforcement

JM McBride

The City of St. Helena, California, is warning people that some leaf blowers are banned in the city. Enforcement of the leaf blower ordinance is scheduled to start April 1.

“On October 11, 2022, City Council adopted ordinance 2022-11, which amended the St. Helena Municipal Code and banned the use of any leaf blowers not powered by battery or electricity,” a news release from the city says.

“The ordinance went in effect on January 1, 2023 and enforcement of the new ordinance is set to begin on April 1,” the city wrote.

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Leaf blower.Photo byCallum HillonUnsplash

“The new regulations address health, safety, environmental and noise concerns posed by gas-powered leaf blowers,” according to the city.

“Beginning April 1, staff is prepared to begin enforcement, which includes the potential to issue citations and fines,” the city wrote.

“Additionally, there are general date and time restrictions on when leaf blowers may be utilized in St. Helena,” the city announced.

Allowed hours for leaf blowing

“The operation of lawful battery-powered and electric leaf blowers on all parcels on Main Street between Pine Street and Grayson Avenue” is only allowed at the following times, according to the city's news release:

5 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday

10 a.m.-12 p.m., Sunday

“For all other areas in the City, the operation of lawful battery-powered and electric leaf blowers is allowed,” the city says in the news release:

9 a.m.-4 a.m., Monday-Friday

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday

10 a.m.-12 p.m., Sunday

The city's news release adds: “It is unlawful to operate leaf blowers on federal and local holidays.”

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