The City says turning off engines while waiting can reduce emissions, noise and fuel use.
The City of Kingston is reminding residents about local rules around vehicle and boat idling.
Under the City’s Community Standards By-Law, vehicles and boats generally cannot idle for more than one minute within a 60-minute period. Tour boats have a separate limit of five minutes within a 60-minute period.
The City says reducing unnecessary idling can help improve air quality, reduce fuel use and limit noise, particularly around schools and sports fields.
Some exemptions apply, including emergency vehicles and boats, Kingston Transit vehicles and vehicles in drive-thru lanes. Occupied vehicles may also idle when temperatures are above 27 C or below 5 C, based on Environment Canada readings.
The City says idling concerns are generally investigated after complaints. Staff first focus on education and voluntary compliance, which can include speaking with drivers or issuing a warning.
Formal enforcement, including administrative penalties, may follow when voluntary compliance is unsuccessful.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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