Pasadena Eases Leaf Blower Ban Following Eaton Wildfire Recovery Progress

Pasadena has amended the recent citywide power air blower prohibition triggered by Eaton Fire ash and debris to a more limited restriction, citing improved fire recovery conditions following the January 2025 Eaton wildfire.

The amendment, signed February 19 by City Manager Miguel Márquez, who authorized it also in his role as Director of Disaster Emergency Services, now restricts leaf blower use only within the fire perimeter and within 50 feet of fire-damaged structures.

“Recent environmental testing of City of Pasadena facilities found no asbestos and all lead measurements to be within the federal safety thresholds,” the amendment states.

Officials had initially banned all power air blower and leaf blower use throughout Pasadena on January 14, concerned about health risks from airborne fire ash, smoke and particulate matter following widespread fires and extraordinary windstorm conditions in Pasadena that began January 7.

The amendment states that “fire recovery conditions have progressed to a point that warrants amendment of the regulation to reduce restrictions on the use of power air blowers and air propelling devices to a temporary ban.”

The revised regulation will remain in effect until the Director determines “that fire recovery conditions have progressed to a point where use of power air blowers and air propelling devices in the identified areas of this amended regulation will not imperil lives or negatively impact the health, safety, and well-being of the lives of residents.”

The restrictions were issued pursuant to the Declaration of Local Emergency — Windstorms and Fires dated January 8, 2025.

According to the document, violators face misdemeanor charges punishable by fines up to $500, imprisonment up to six months, or both, under Pasadena Municipal Code Section 2.370.120.

CAL FIRE defines the specific boundaries of the restricted area and can be viewed at: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/1/7/eaton-fire.