Riordan Signs Leaf-Blower Ban

Despite last-minute appeals by gardeners and Japanese American community leaders, Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan signed an ordinance into law Thursday that will ban the use of gas-powered leaf blowers within 500 feet of residences.

The ordinance, which the City Council passed in a 9-3 vote Tuesday, would impose a $1,000 fine on both the user of the blower and the employer. Leaf vacuums no louder than 45 decibels or electric leaf blowers would be permitted under the new ordinance, which takes effect July 1.

At a Thursday news conference organized by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce, a multiracial panel of gardeners told reporters that the restrictions are not feasible because no leaf vacuums currently available are quiet enough. In addition, they said, electric leaf blowers put users at risk of electrocution if they come into contact with water.

In a statement, Riordan said he will review the ordinance with gardeners and other interested groups six months after the ordinance takes effect. The author of the ordinance, Councilman Marvin Braude, will consider amendments to improve it.