Novato Mulls Leaf-Blower Ban

NOVATO, CA — Novato is considering mulling a leaf-blower ban, and the North Bay city next month will hold a public hearing on the proposal.

The Novato City Council at a regular July 12 meeting will hold a public hearing on a potential citywide gas-powered leaf blower ban.

The city also launched a survey in which residents can express their views on the proposal.

Operating a gas-powered commercial backpack leaf blower for just one hour emits pollution comparable to driving a passenger car about 1,100 miles — approximately the distance from Los Angeles to Denver, over 15 hours of driving, according to the California Air Resources Board.

The sale of new gas-powered small off-road engines (e.g. leaf blowers, mowers, trimmers, chainsaws) will be banned in California in 2024.

“Eliminating the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in our community would immediately reduce dangerous greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Should a ban be adopted, Novato will be joining many other communities in Marin County and across the state that have taken similar action to protect its residents and our environment,” said Novato Sustainability Coordinator Gretchen Schubeck said in a statement.

California has allocated $30 million to support the transition to pollution-free landscaping equipment and help professional landscapers and gardeners purchase replacement equipment.

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