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1. Why does the Town of Yountville want to control the use of leaf blowers?

The Town Council took action in response to a citizen lead petition with over 200 signatures and a formal request by residents for the Town to ban gas leaf blowers. After several months of a robust community discussion focusing on the environmental reasons, noise, and quality of life concerns associated with operation of gas leaf blowers, on October 20, 2020 the Town Council adopted Ordinance 20-498 which bans gas powered leaf blowers effective July 1, 2021.

2. Are all leaf blowers prohibited?

No. Only gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited in the Ordinance. Electric or battery powered leaf blowers are allowed between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm.

3. How does this ordinance address my concerns over noise and dust?

Provisions have been made to the ordinance to assure more responsible use of blower equipment, including limited hours of operation, and required control of dust. The municipal code allows operation of a leaf blower between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm The ordinance requires that operation of a leaf blower shall not result in leaves, dirt, debris, or other materials being blown or deposited on any other parcel, land, lot, or public right-of-way on which the leaf blower is being used or operated.

4. How will this ordinance help the environment?

Restrictions on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in Yountville will yield multiple environmental benefits. The primary benefit will be a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions that result from the combustion of fossil fuels, in this case, gasoline. In addition, by only allowing electric or battery powered leaf blowers, it is anticipated that there will be a decrease in noise levels and a reduction in suspended dust and particulates. Electric and battery-powered blowers generally operate at a lower decibel levels and generate more moderate air speeds.

5. When will proposed restrictions go into effect?

July 1, 2021.

6. How will this ordinance be enforced? Will there be monetary fines for non-compliance?

The Town will enforce this ordinance on a complaint-driven basis. Potential violators would be subject to the standard administrative fines and penalties for violation of the municipal code which start with up to $100 for a first violation, $200 for a second violation, and $500 for third and subsequent violations (Yountville Municipal Code Section 8.05.120). The violations will be enforced on the operator of the device.

7. How do I report a violation?

To report a violation please call Town Hall during business hours (Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm) or the Yountville Sheriff’s Office at 707-944-9228 after hours and weekends.

8. What if I am a homeowner and my landscape contractor is using a gas-powered leaf blower?

The intent of the Ordinance is to enforce the ban on the person operating the device. As a homeowner you will want to make your landscape contractor aware of the ban.

9. What if I currently own a gas-powered leaf blower?

Electric and battery powered leaf blowers are available to purchase through a variety of local retailers throughout Napa Valley. The Town is offering an incentive to help offset the cost for Yountville residents and commercial operators with a current Town business license, until funds are expended. For more information, please email Erica Teagarden or call 707-944-8851.

10. Who may be eligible for the Leaf Blower Ordinance Incentive Program?

Any resident who provides proof of residency and proof of purchase of an electric or battery powered leaf blower may be eligible for a grant of up to $150 dollars. Commercial operator and business with a current Town of Yountville business license and meets the application submittal requirements (i.e.: verified local accounts, on-site staff, etc.) may be eligible for a grant of up to $350 to help offset the cost of new equipment. For more information, please email Erica Teagarden or call 707-944-8851.