Engine idling
Leaving your engine running while your vehicle is stationary causes avoidable air pollution, which is bad for your health and the environment. It’s also illegal and you may be issued with a £20 fixed penalty notice.
Breathing in air pollution has been linked to a wide range of health problems, including lung and heart disease, stroke and cancer. Children and older people are more vulnerable to air pollution. So, switching off your engine near schools, by bus stops, hospitals and where there are high numbers of idling vehicle engines is essential.
Switching off your engine helps to reduce CO2 emissions, improves local air quality, protects the vulnerable in our communities and saves you money on fuel too.
You can email us to report an engine idling offence.
Top tips
There are small simple steps you can take to lessen your impact on the environment.
Switch off if your vehicle is stationary for more than 30 seconds.
Plan ahead – choose uncongested routes, combine trips, car share or leave your car at home.
Drive off as soon as possible after starting your engine.
Did you know?
We’re taking action to tackle air pollution – we’ve introduced a Low Emission Zone to help improve air quality.
Switching off your engine or leaving your car at home are some of the ways you can make a difference to air pollution and climate change.
Find out more about what we’re doing and how you can get involved.