Drivers in Wales now face significantly higher fines for leaving their engines running while stationary, with penalties increased from £20 to between £75 and £150. The new fines were introduced on Tuesday.
New fines target air pollution and public health
The Welsh Government has increased fines for idling to tackle air pollution and protect public health. The measure particularly targets areas around schools, hospitals and other locations with vulnerable populations.
According to the Welsh Government, every minute a car engine idles generates enough exhaust to fill 150 balloons with harmful pollutants including cyanide and nitrogen oxides. The government states that air pollution remains a serious risk to health and the environment.
Highway Code guidance and public awareness
Rule 123 of the Highway Code already advises drivers to switch off engines when stationary for more than a couple of minutes. However, a Welsh Government survey found only a third of people are aware that unnecessary idling constitutes an offence.
Enforcement officers must first ask drivers to turn off their engines before issuing fines. If drivers comply or drive away, no penalty is issued, but refusal to comply results in a fine.
Which vehicles are affected
The penalties apply to petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles but not electric cars, which produce no exhaust emissions when stationary. Local authorities across Wales will determine where within the £75-£150 range to set their fines.
The Welsh Government describes air pollution as one of the most significant environmental public health challenges of our time, with impacts on vulnerable groups including older people, disabled people and young children.
