Idle-Free Resolution

Be Idle-Free!

The City of Dublin adopted an idle-free Resolution in 2021 that asks all residents to turn off a vehicles engine if it is running while not in motion or “idling” for 30 seconds or longer. Vehicle idling releases ozone and other particulate matter that harm the body’s respiratory function while also emitting greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. City fleet and employees are expected to follow this ordinance while Dublin residents and visitors are encouraged to comply, but the following exceptions may apply: 

• If it is necessary for an emergency vehicle to idle during an emergency situation.
• If it is necessary to idle a vehicle to prevent a safety or health emergency for human or animal occupants, or to prevent the aggravation of a passenger’s disability or health condition, but not merely to maintain the comfort of a vehicle's occupants.
• If the vehicle is forced to remain motionless on a public road due to traffic conditions.
• If vehicle idling is necessary for auxiliary power or law enforcement equipment, refrigeration units, loading/unloading lifts, well drilling, and/or farming.
• If vehicle idling is necessary for repair or inspection of a vehicle.

Idling Myths

Common misconceptions over vehicle idling often prevent drivers from turning their engines off. These include:

•  Idling to warm an engine before use.
  • Most cars only require 5-10 seconds after engine ignition before it is safe to operate.
  • Driving carefully is the best way to properly warm an engine. 
• Turning an engine off and on wastes more fuel than idling.
  • Idling for 10 seconds or longer wastes more fuel than turning an engine off and then on again when ready for use.