Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers on Residential Lots

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New Monterey City Code Ordinance 22-18.1 takes effect January 1, 2021 that prohibits gas-powered leaf blowers on residential lots. Electric and battery-powered leaf blowers are still permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Monterey City Council approved the recommendation by the Community Development Department staff after much community discussion around noise disruption and air pollution emitted from gas blowers in neighborhoods.

New Monterey City Code Ordinance 22-18.1 takes effect January 1, 2021 that prohibits gas-powered leaf blowers on residential lots. Electric and battery-powered leaf blowers are still permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Monterey City Council approved the recommendation by the Community Development Department staff after much community discussion around noise disruption and air pollution emitted from gas blowers in neighborhoods.

Consultation has concluded

Ask a question about the new gas-powered leaf blower ordinance.

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    I did not hear about this until it was too late to add input, but I live close to commercial uses so the LOUD noise starts at 8am most days with some at 7am. One is right outside my bedroom window once a week, but since I'm residentail and they are not I assume this is still legal. What can I do to get some sleep and stop gas Blowers in my neighborhood?

    jb asked about 3 years ago

    Thank you for letting us know about your concern.  The new ordinance provides for restricted hours of operation for all leaf blowers 8am to 5pm.  Please contact me with any information on location, days and times and I will address compliance with the property owner and the landscape company.  I can be reached at moritz@monterey.org or 831-646-3750.  

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    Does residential include condos and apartment complexes

    CharlieD asked about 3 years ago

    Hi CharlieD,

    Yes, residential zoning areas include most condos and apartment complexes.  There are some areas of the City in residential areas that are zoned "Planned Community" and are not affected by the ordinance.  This includes some areas of Skyline Forest and Old Town.  If you send us your address (moritz@monterey.org), we can look up the address in question for you.  

    Here is a link to the zoning map.


    Thanks,

    Nat Rojanasathira
    Assistant City Manager

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    Hi. Does anyone respond to complaints of gardeners still using gas blowers? What is the process? Thanks!

    Deborah Roberts asked over 3 years ago

    Hi Deborah,

    Our Code Compliance Coordinator, Bill Moritz, is providing education and enforcement of the new gas leaf blower ordinance.  The best way to report an issue is to call his direct number at 831-646-3750 or you can email him at moritz@monterey.org.  If Bill is available, he will take your call, if not please leave a message with as much of the following information as possible, including the location of leaf blower activity, name of landscape company, time and date.  Bill will follow up with the landscaper, property owner or both as necessary.

    Thanks for your question,

    Nat Rojanasathira
    Assistant City Manager

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    Can I send a big THANK YOU! for enacting this ordinance? The new peace and quiet in the neighborhood is so welcome.

    Deinandra asked over 3 years ago

    Thanks for your feedback!