Manhattan Beach is grappling with whether to fully enforce its long-standing leaf blower ban amid an ongoing fire emergency and air quality concerns. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued an order banning the use of leaf blowers across the county due to hazardous air conditions, including blowing ash from the fires. This order applies to Manhattan Beach, where mechanical leaf blowers, both gas and electric, have been prohibited since 1998 under the Manhattan Beach Municipal Code (M.B.M.C. 5.48.330).
Despite the ban, many residents claim it is often ignored, and violations are not widely enforced. Recently, gardeners were seen using leaf blowers outside Manhattan Beach Studios, stirring up dust and worsening air quality.
Mayor Amy Howorth said the city is stepping up enforcement with proactive patrolling. However, the Manhattan Beach Police did not respond to a request for comment.
Leaf blowers have long been a point of contention in Manhattan Beach due to their noise and air pollution. At a recent City Council candidate forum, Nina Tarnay, now a council member, emphasized the need for enforcement. Fellow council member Steve Charelian also called for increased enforcement, suggesting better communication with local gardeners and more proactive measures, including additional code enforcement officers.
The L.A. County Health Department’s recent order comes amid severely degraded air quality due to the fires and strong winds. The department stated that leaf blowers contribute to worsening air quality by stirring up ash and particulate matter, which pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Residents can report leaf blower violations through the city’s non-emergency police line at 310-545-4566 or via the Reach Manhattan Beach app.
Additionally, the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Chevron, is distributing free N95 masks due to the ongoing air quality concerns. Masks can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce office on 15th Street.
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