Here’s Why Warming up Your Car in the Winter Is Illegal

A car exhaust pipe in the winter — Car Pipe Exhaust | iStock – xphotoz

Getting your car toasty on a cold winter morning could result in a hefty traffic ticket if you do it wrong.

You don’t have to explain to me that it’s cold outside. Winter is here, meaning drivers want to warm up their cars before heading out. However, there’s one particular method of heating your vehicle that’s illegal. You could be fined.

Here’s when it’s illegal to warm up your car

In many states, counties, and cities have anti-idling laws. That means it’s illegal to leave your car running while unattended. Currently, there are anti-idling laws in 35 states.

The laws are aimed at reducing air pollution and reducing theft. Not every law is the same. Some specifically target cars left running while unattended in public areas such as streets, alleys, or parking lots.

The practice is known as ‘puffing’ and puts a red target on your vehicle for thieves. Stealing a vehicle is often a crime of opportunity. If a criminal sees a vehicle running, they can jump in and take off.

In some states, idling cars in private driveways is fine. Also, vehicles with remote start can get a pass because they stay locked and can’t be shifted into gear without the fob. However, thieves can quickly clone the signal.

Other areas have idling time limits. For example, in Maricopa County, Arizona, it’s illegal to idle a vehicle for more than five minutes. In Georgia and Pennsylvania, time limits are extended during colder temperatures.

The laws often take engine type and vehicle weight into account. Exemptions are often made for police, fire, and other emergency vehicles.

According to the EPA, police officers are authorized to enforce these traffic laws. As a result, you could receive a ticket and a fine. So, sit in your car to heat it up to be safe.

Here are the states with anti-idling laws: