Idling regulations
Idling means running the engine of a motor vehicle when the vehicle is not in motion. Under section 2.7 of the City of Vancouver's Motor Vehicle Noise and Emission Abatement Bylaw 9344, it is illegal to idle a vehicle:
- For more than three consecutive minutes in a 60-minute period, or
- While unattended and unlocked
Idling exceptions
The idling regulation applies to all vehicles, except when a:
- Vehicle is attached to equipment, and the equipment needs power from the engine in order to run, for a commercial or public purpose
- Emergency vehicle in the course of performing its duties, including training
- Motor vehicle assisting in an emergency
- Armoured vehicle used to transport money or valuables, while loading or unloading
- Motor vehicle in the course of a race or parade approved by Vancouver City Council
- Bus while passengers are loading or unloading
Read the Motor Vehicle Noise and Emission Abatement By-law 9344 PDF file (42 KB)