TO:
FROM:
CITY COUNCIL
CITY ATTORNEY
Ordinance Fact Sheet
DATE: April 11, 2022
SUBJECT: ORDINANCE BANNING GAS-POWERED LEAF-BLOWERS
TITLE OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA AMENDING CHAPTER 9.37 (LEAF BLOWING MACHINES) OF TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO THE PROHIBITION OF GAS
POWERED LEAF-BLOWING MACHINES
PURPOSE OF ORDINANCE
This ordinance bans gas-powered leaf-blowers in the City of Pasadena, in two stages: (1) starting February 28, 2023 for equipment operated by the City; and (2) starting April 28, 2023 for equipment operated by any other person.
REASON WHY LEGISLATION IS NEEDED
This legislation is needed to protect the public health and welfare from the air and noise pollution associated with two-stroke engines commonly used in gas-powered leaf blowers, as they result in air emission generally more impactful than typical automobiles, and can be so loud as to be unduly bothersome and potentially cause hearing damage.
PROGRAMS, DEPARTMENTS OR GROUPS AFFECTED
The Planning & Community Development Department will implement the proposed ordinance, with assistance from the Public Health Department. Those departments within the City that use gas-powered leaf-blowers will also be affected, as they are required to phase out and replace such equipment.
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ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
On February 28, 2022, the City Council found that this ordinance was exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061 (b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT
There will be direct costs to the City in the form of replacing all of the gas-powered leaf blowing machines with electric (corded and/or battery-powered) as well as the cost of the informational outreach program, which would involve staff resources and printing and publishing costs.
Prepared by:
~~
Theresa Fuentes
Assistant City Attorney
Concurred by:
Interim City Manager
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Respectfully submitted,