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Portland's gas leaf blower policy went into effect January 1, 2026, and the administrative rules, which set guidelines on how the policy is implemented, were adopted on January 27, 2026.
The gas leaf blower policy transitions us away from gas leaf blowers over two years, providing health benefits to leaf blower operators and residents by reducing noise and air pollution.
What Portlanders need to know
- When does the policy take effect? In 2026 and 2027, gas leaf blowers will be permitted from October through December. In 2028, gas leaf blowers will be banned year-round.
- Can I use an electric leaf blower? Electric leaf blowers are permitted all year-round, though they must still comply with the noise code.
- Who does this policy apply to? The policy applies to all property owners in Portland. This means that a property owner must ensure that any contractor or property manager they hire does not use gas leaf blowers.
Phased timeline
During 2026 and 2027, only electric leaf blowers are allowed from January through September. Property owners and contractors can still use gas leaf blowers from October through December to accommodate the wet leaf season as part of this phased approach. In 2028, gas leaf blowers will be banned year-round.
However, all leaf blowers, whether gas or electric, must comply with the Noise Code, all year round. You can submit noise complaints online.
How to submit a complaint
It's important to note that violations to the gas leaf blower policy apply only to property owners, not contractors or property managers. Property owners are the party responsible for ensuring that gas leaf blowers are not used.
If you witness someone using a gas leaf blower between January and September during 2026 or 2027, or any time starting January 2028, please use the gas leaf blower complaint form or call 311 to report the violation.
Property owners that are found to be in violation will receive a warning about the policy during 2026 and 2027 as part of this phased approach. Penalties for violations of the leaf blower policy go into effect in 2028.
Information for landscaping professionals
If you are a landscaping professional who provides services in the city of Portland, it's time to plan for the full ban on gas leaf blower that begins in 2028. While property owners are the responsible party for compliance, all properties within Portland city limits will soon be required to use electric leaf blowers instead of gas leaf blowers.
The policy applies to handheld and backpack leaf blowers. It does not apply to other types of leaf blowers such as walk-behind or tow-behind blowers, or other gas-powered landscaping equipment.
Unfortunately, City of Portland is unable to offer incentives for individuals or businesses to replace gas leaf blowers at this time. Landscapers who need assistance transitioning from gas to electric leaf blowers may be eligible for resources from the Portland Electric Landscaping Initiative.
We recognize the impacts this may have on landscaping professionals. We are continuing to seek funding to support small businesses; please check back in the future for more information.