Noise

Gas Powered Leaf Blowers

The Aspen City Council banned the use of gas powered leaf blowers in 2003 in response to numerous noise complaints and a citizen petition requesting a ban. Read the City's noise ordinance for more information. 

Aspen allows electric leaf blowers, which are cleaner, quieter, and better for air quality and health. Below is an electric leaf blower:

I saw someone using a gas-powered leaf blower, what should I do? 

• You may tell them that using a gas-powered leaf blower in Aspen is not allowed 
• You may report the illegal use of gas-powered leaf blowers by contacting theEnvironmental Health and Sustainability Department. In order for us to take action, we will need your contact information and any information regarding your observations, including photos. This information will be necessary if a citation is issued. 

Amplified Noise at Special Events

Public Event

If you are hosting a special event, you will likely need to apply for a Special Event Permit if your noise levels are going to be higher than regularly allowed. This could include: 

• Bands 
• DJs 
• Use of microphones or speakerphones 

If you are hosting a Public Event: 

• If the general public is invited to the event: 
  • Your event may require a Special Event Permit. 
  • Review the noise ordinance to know all of the specific requirements for amplified noise at public special events. However, the key points are that the maximum decibel limit at the perimeter of the event is 100dBA between the hours of 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Don’t forget to give the neighbors a seven-day advance notice. 

If you are hosting a Private Event

If the general public is not invited to the event, 

• Review the noise ordinance to know all of the specific requirements for amplified noise at public special events. However, the key points are that the maximum decibel limit at the perimeter of the event is 80dBA between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. (the Environmental Health Department has a noise meter you may borrow). Don’t forget to give the neighbors a seven-day advance notice! 

Construction Noise

If you are concerned about construction noise, please contact a Construction Mitigation Officer in the City of Aspen Engineering Department at 970-920-5080.