HI HB296

Restricts leaf blower operation in the Waikiki special improvement district within residential zones or within 100 feet of a residence to 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and state/federal holidays, and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sundays and holidays.

Permits commercial and hotel operators to operate leaf blowers on their premises at least 100 feet from residential zones or residences between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays and holidays.

Requires leaf blowers used within permitted times to emit no more than 80 decibels of noise.

Establishes escalating fines for violations: $50 for first violation, $100 for second, $200 for third, and $500 for each subsequent violation.

Takes effect January 1, 2050.