No, leaving a car running unattended is prohibited nationwide under Argentina’s Ley Nacional de Tránsito 24.449 (Art. 48), with Buenos Aires Province enforcing Decreto 532/2023 to penalize violators. Local ordinances, such as Código de Faltas de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (Art. 5.1.1), impose fines up to ARS 15,000 (USD 16) for idling vehicles. Enforcement has intensified since 2026, targeting fuel theft and carbon emissions.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Argentina
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National Traffic Law (24.449/95): Article 48 explicitly bans leaving vehicles unattended while running, citing public safety risks. Violations may result in vehicle impoundment under Resolución 195/2024 of the Secretaría de Transporte de la Nación.
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Buenos Aires Province Decree (532/2023): Mandates fines for idling in urban areas, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses. Local police (Policía de la Provincia de Buenos Aires) conduct targeted patrols in high-theft zones like Palermo and Recoleta.
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City of Buenos Aires Ordinances: The Código de Faltas (Art. 5.1.1) criminalizes unattended running cars, with exceptions only for emergency vehicles or police-authorized operations. The Agencia de Protección Ambiental monitors compliance under Ley 5.965/2022 on vehicular emissions.