No, Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-4458(A) prohibits leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running, classifying it as a civil traffic violation punishable by a $300 fine. Phoenix Municipal Code § 36-13(A) mirrors this restriction within city limits, while the Arizona Department of Public Safety enforces compliance statewide. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to escalate penalties for repeat offenses in high-risk zones like downtown Phoenix and Tempe.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Arizona
- Statewide Ban (ARS § 28-4458(A)): Operating a vehicle with the engine running while unattended is illegal, regardless of location. Exceptions include remote-start systems with automatic engine shutoff or vehicles parked on private property with secured access.
- Local Ordinances (Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff): Municipal codes impose additional fines—e.g., Phoenix’s § 36-13(A) adds a $250 surcharge for violations in school zones or near public transit hubs. Flagstaff’s 2025 ordinance targets idling near parks, enforcing a $150 penalty.
- Commercial Vehicle Restrictions (ADOT Rules): Arizona Department of Transportation regulations mandate idling limits for commercial fleets (e.g., trucks over 10,000 lbs) to 5 minutes, with stricter 2026 compliance audits for carriers operating in Maricopa and Pima Counties.