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The City Council on Monday ratified a resolution that confirmed the City Manager’s amendment to the Power Air Blower Regulation.
The amendment limits the use of devices like leaf blowers in certain areas impacted by the devastating Eaton Fire. The action does not apply to gasoline-powered leaf blowers, which have remained categorically illegal in Pasadena under an unmodified 2022 ordinance.
The regulations were put in place following City Manager Miguel Márquez’s local emergency declaration, implemented on Jan. 14, due to the windstorm and fires that began in early January.
The fires worsened air quality by dispersing ash and particulate matter into the atmosphere, posing health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
The regulation banned the use of power air blowers and similar devices citywide to reduce exposure to harmful airborne particles.
After air quality monitoring by the South Coast Air Quality Management District and tests at city facilities showed no significant health risks, the City Manager amended the regulation to allow the use of power blowers outside the fire’s perimeter and at least 50 feet away from fire-damaged structures.
Violations of the regulation, a misdemeanor, can result in a $500 fine or six months imprisonment.
The regulation will remain in effect until it is either terminated by the City Council or rescinded by the City Manager.
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