It is illegal in New Jersey (Since Feb 2003) to let either a gasoline or diesel-powered motor vehicle idle for more than 3 minutes while the vehicle is not in motion. The only exceptions are as follows:

• Vehicles picking up or discharging passengers (maximum 15 minutes)
• Vehicles stopped in traffic or at a traffic light
• Emergency vehicles are used only when they are actively involved in emergency work.
• A motor vehicle whose engine is used for powering another mechanical operation other than propulsion (like a bucket truck or backhoe)
• Diesel vehicles stopped for more than 3 hours when the temperature is below 25 degrees Fahrenheit may idle for 15 minutes.
• Vehicles with sleeper berths under certain conditions

For more information, please check out the following links:

• NJDEP News Release 7/2/07
• NJDEP Stop the Soot Campaign
• NJDEP Frequently asked questions about Idling Restrictions

Contact

James Simoni
(848) 445-3034
james.simoni@rutgers.edu