Illegal To Idle
Beginning October 1st, it is now illegal to let your vehicle idle for more than five minutes in the city of Portland.
The Portland City Council approved the ordinance on September 15, 2008, in an attempt to reduce greenhouse effects, car emissions, and wasted fuel. The ordinance follows a state law for commercial vehicles, however, fire trucks, ambulances, and other public safety and service vehicles are exempt.
Exceptions for the general public include:
· If you are in a traffic jam
· If it is below 32 degrees (you may then idle for fifteen minutes)
· If you are ill
Violators will incur a $50.00 fine for breaking the ordinance, which critics believe will be a burden for police to enforce. The fine is scheduled to begin January 1, 2009.
For more information on the new idling ordinance and all other Maine state driving laws, please visit: http://www.maine.gov/portal/government/law.html.
