The State of California banned the sale of new small off-road engine (SORE), such as leaf blowers, lawn mowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and small chainsaws starting January 1, 2024.

This ban resulted in the eventual phasing out of this equipment. The City of Irvine sought to expedite this phased-out approach by proposing to enact a ban on the use of this equipment starting July 1, 2024, for leaf blowers and January 1, 2025, for the remaining equipment. This ban was presented to the Irvine City Council in late November 2023 for consideration. In December 2023, Irvine City Council passed Ordinance No 23-25, which enacted a phased-out approach on the use of SORE gas equipment.

The City of Irvine has partnered with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) to assist Irvine residents transition to zero-emission lawn and garden equipment. Residential lawn and garden equipment rebates are now available for Irvine residents. Each household can receive up to three rebates over the lifetime of the program, but only for different pieces of equipment. Rebate cannot exceed the purchase price of the equipment (excluding taxes and delivery).

Resources

• The Orange County Power Authority offers rebates and discounts on electric tools for landscape maintenance. To learn more, visit their website.
• The South Coast Air Quality Management District offers rebates for commercial landscapers and residents for a variety of equipment. To learn more, visit their website.
• The California State Ban can be read here.