Idling Regulations

In New York City, you should not let your car engine idle for more than three minutes when parked, standing or stopping.

There are two exceptions to this rule:

• Emergency vehicles that are legally authorized
• Vehicles using the engine to operate a loading, unloading or processing device

Near schools, the idling time is only one minute. This is a rule from the year 2009.

Businesses that use motor vehicles in construction, and commercial, cultural and manufacturing establishments that own, rent and use motor vehicles, should know these rules. Not following them can lead to large financial penalties. You can find the fines in the Rules of the City of New York (RCNY) Title 15, Air Code Penalty Schedule.