Chapter 10.08
VEHICLE IDLING
Sections:
10.08.030 Property subject to this chapter.
10.08.040 Idling restriction within city limits.
10.08.010 Intent.
The purpose of this chapter is primarily educational, as well as to protect the public health and improve the environment by reducing emissions while conserving fuel. The city council encourages education rather than penalties in the enforcement of this chapter, particularly for first offenses. (Ord. 3292 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).
10.08.020 Definitions.
For purposes of this chapter, these definitions shall apply:
A. “Driver” means any person who drives, operates, or is in actual physical control of a vehicle.
B. “Idle” means the operation of a vehicle’s internal combustion engine while the vehicle is stationary or not in the act of performing work or its normal function.
C. “Vehicle” means any self-propelled vehicle that is required to be registered and have a license plate by the Washington Department of Licensing. (Ord. 3292 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).
10.08.030 Property subject to this chapter.
This chapter shall be enforceable on all public property and on private property that is open to the general public. (Ord. 3292 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).
10.08.040 Idling restriction within city limits.
No driver, while operating a vehicle within city limits, shall cause or permit a vehicle’s internal combustion engine to idle for more than three minutes, except for the following kinds of idling:
A. Idling while stopped:
1. For an official traffic control device;
2. For an official traffic control signal;
3. At the direction of a police officer.
B. Idling as needed for the health or safety of a driver or passenger, including police K-9 or other service animals or when the temperature is at or below 30 degrees Fahrenheit or at or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
C. Idling as needed for authorized emergency or law enforcement vehicles to operate equipment.
D. Idling as needed for repair, maintenance or inspection of the vehicle.
E. Idling as needed for the period recommended by the manufacturer for efficient operations of a turbocharged heavy-duty vehicle. This includes building air pressure in air brake systems, among other requirements.
F. Idling as needed to operate auxiliary equipment for which the vehicle was primarily designed or equipped, such as: emergency equipment, refrigeration unit, lift, crane, pump, drill, hoist, or ready mixed equipment, except a heater or air conditioner. (Ord. 3292 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).
10.08.050 Penalties.
Violation of this chapter is a civil infraction punishable by a fine of $50.00. (Ord. 3292 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).