Attention Ottawa drivers!

Starting January 1st, 2024, you'll need to keep an eye on the clock or risk hefty fines as the city introduces stricter anti-idling regulations aimed at tackling unnecessary vehicle idling.

New Idling Limits

Under the new rules, the maximum idling time has been significantly reduced. For occupied vehicles, drivers can now idle for a maximum of three minutes per hour when temperatures range from 0°C to 27°C. In contrast, when temperatures dip below 0°C or exceed 27°C, the limit extends to 10 minutes. Unoccupied vehicles, however, face a much stricter limit of just one minute per hour, irrespective of temperature.

Environmental Impact

These new regulations arise from a commitment to improving air quality in Ottawa. According to city officials, reducing idling times can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the city estimates that if every driver in Ottawa cut down on idling by just two minutes daily, it could lead to a reduction of approximately 31.2 million kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions each year—equivalent to taking nearly 6,780 cars off the roads!

Exemptions

Exemptions to the anti-idling bylaw have been established for several types of vehicles, including emergency services, public transportation like OC Transpo and Para Transpo buses, mobile workshops, and those transporting individuals with a medical exemption. Additionally, school buses and tour buses are allowed to idle while loading or unloading passengers.

Special Events

Interestingly, even vehicles involved in parades, races, and other events sanctioned by the city must follow the new anti-idling protocols when stationary.

Background

Ottawa first enacted its idling control bylaw back in 2007, which originally allowed for three minutes of idling per hour within a limited temperature range. However, recent changes reflect a growing awareness and urgency around environmental issues.

Enforcement and Penalties

Since the initial implementation, the city has documented over 4,600 idling-related service requests, with enforcement actions translating to an average of only 10 verbal warnings and seven issued tickets per year over the past five years. With a fine of $500 looming for violations, drivers are encouraged to be more conscious of their idling habits as we step into the new year.

Stay Informed

Stay tuned to local news for more updates on this critical environmental initiative!