Del. campaign targets vehicle engine idling

State environmental officials are joining with the city of Newark to kick off a campaign asking motorists to help reduce air pollution.

Wednesday’s event at Newark High School highlights a Newark ordinance aimed at getting drivers to turn off car engines rather than letting them idle for long periods.

 

The ordinance prohibits idling an engine for more than five consecutive minutes in a 60-minute period. A first offense results in a warning, with a $100 fine for subsequent offenses.

Officials say Newark’s ordinance is unique in Delaware because it addresses personal vehicles, not just commercial trucks and buses.

The city received a state grant for a campaign to draw attention to the ordinance and raise awareness of opportunities to decrease idling, such as at fast food and bank drive-thru lanes.