City Extends Ban on Leaf Blowers Amid Fire Concerns

The City of Pasadena announced it would continue prohibiting the use of leaf blowers and similar devices until further notice, extending a ban first implemented on Wednesday, Jan. 15.

Municipal authorities expressed concern that power air blowers could disperse potentially harmful fire ash and other particulate matter from the recent Eaton Fire into the surrounding air.

The Pasadena Public Health Department is working with regional public health partners, state and federal agencies to evaluate potential residual threats to public health posed by the Eaton Fire.

Violators of the temporary ban face significant penalties, including fines up to $500, imprisonment for up to six months, or a combination of both, according to the City’s Power Air Blower Regulation.

City health officials identified several vulnerable populations at heightened risk from degraded air quality, including individuals with respiratory conditions, older adults, and children.

The ban specifically targets power air blowers and air propelling devices, which officials say can worsen air quality by dispersing ash and particulate matter that may contain wildfire contaminants.

Officials advised residents to protect themselves by closing windows during unhealthy air conditions and using air conditioners that recirculate air to filter potentially harmful particles.

Health authorities recommend wearing N95 or P100 masks during poor air conditions, regularly checking and replacing air filters, and using HEPA air purifiers to improve indoor air quality.

Residents should clean dusty surfaces with damp cloths and follow proper ash cleanup safety protocols available through the Los Angeles County Public Health website, officials said.

The prohibition will remain in effect until authorities determine that using such devices will not negatively impact the lives, health, safety, and well-being of residents.

Officials promised to notify the public through a press release when conditions improve sufficiently to lift the temporary ban on leaf blowers and similar devices.

Witness a violation? Report it to Pasadena Code Compliance at (626) 744-8633.