Although many people associate unnecessary idling with heavy-duty vehicles, idling occurs in every sector of transportation, from freight trucks to passenger cars. In many cases, a wide variety of technological solutions are available to further reduce or eliminate unnecessary idling. Many states and localities, including several in North Texas, are enacting laws that prohibit unnecessary idling.

Gas and diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of greater than 14,000 pounds may not idle the main engine of the vehicle for more than five minutes within participating jurisdictions. Vehicles with a sleeper berth are exempt during the government-mandated rest period so long as the idling is not occurring within a two-mile radius of a facility offering external heating and air conditioning connections. Motorists may be ticketed for idling in participating areas. This rule is in effect year-round. Several exemptions exist related to vehicle type, operations and air-conditioning/heating provisions.

 People can take an active role in improving regional air quality by reporting idling vehicles anonymously. Citizens can easily report a vehicle online or by phone. If reported, a letter will be mailed to the registered owner of the idling vehicle stating that his/her vehicle was anonymously reported for idling.

Cities and counties in the Metroplex that already have idling rules and restrictions include Arlington, Benbrook, Cedar Hill, Celina, Celina, Colleyville, Dallas, Duncanville, Euless, Lancaster, Little Elm, Mabank, McKinney, Mesquite, North Richland Hills, Pecan Hill, Richardson, Collin County, Dallas County, Kaufman County and Tarrant County.

For more information visit NCTCOG.org.