What is the Law For Blowing Leaves into Someone's Yard in CO?

Fall has arrived, and it isn't taking long for leaves to change colors, fall from trees, and fill many of the yards across Colorado. Many look forward to fall because it means that yardwork is nearly done. As mentioned here, yardwork fatigue is a real thing, and many are looking forward to sitting on their couches this fall and winter and not having to get outside every weekend. Before you can do that, though, you will have to get the leaves cleaned up in your yard. Most people hate raking leaves, and if you have a leaf blower, you might be tempted to use it to cheat this year. When it comes to blowing leaves this fall what can you legally do and what will get you in trouble and break the law in Colorado?

Is It Illegal to Blow Leaves Into Someone's Yard in Colorado?

A leaf blower is a major luxury and can be beneficial this time of year. As the leaves pile up in your yard, instead of raking them, it may be tempting to blow the leaves into your neighbor's yard. This is especially tempting when the leaves in your yard came from a tree on their property. Sadly, that is not a legal option. According to Colorado law, it is illegal to blow leaves into your neighbor's yard, even if they came from their tree. Once they are on your property, they become your problem. Moving waste from your yard to another yard is considered illegal dumping or a private nuisance, and if caught, could result in a fine. If your neighbor is doing this to you, you could call officers to help handle the situation.

Blowing Leaves in Colorado

Knowing you can't blow them into your neighbor's yard, you may ask, 'Can I blow leaves into the street?' The short answer is no; that is also illegal. Doing this is more hazardous than blowing them into someone's yard. It is illegal to blow them into the street, gutters, or storm drains. This is because they block drains, create traffic hazards, and make it dangerous for motorcycles and bicyclists. If you are looking for a good way to get rid of the leaves, here is one way to do it.

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For more on what you legally can and can't do with leaves in your yard this fall, make sure to click the link in the second paragraph above. As more and more leaves fill up your yard, make sure to follow the law and not make enemies with your neighbors this fall.

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