Regulations
As of July 1, 2024, it is illegal to operate a gas-powered leaf blower in Emeryville. These devices are noisy and contribute to air pollution which has negative impacts on residents and workers.
Gas-powered leaf blowers emit more pollutants than one might expect, including large amounts of liquid and particulate matter, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), and hydrocarbons (HC). CO, NOx, O3, and HC all contribute to climate change.
Penalties for violating the prohibition apply to the hiring party (or owner/tenant if on their own property) and not to the individual landscaping company, or worker. The Municipal Code is linked below.
Emeryville Municipal Code Ch. 15
Alternatives
Please switch to electric leaf blowers. They are widely available, quieter, and perform well. Emeryville's Public Works Department maintenance team has already made the switch; you are encouraged to do the same!
Reporting
To report the use of a gas-powered leaf blower in Emeryville, please report directly to Code Enforcement at (510) 596-3797 during business hours (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.). Please specify the property or location that the gas-powered leaf blower was or is currently being used.