No, leaving a car running unattended is illegal in California under Vehicle Code § 10852 and local ordinances, with exceptions for remote starts in certain jurisdictions. Violations may result in fines up to $100, and law enforcement agencies, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP), actively enforce these rules to combat vehicle theft and carbon monoxide hazards.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in California
- Vehicle Code § 10852 prohibits leaving any motor vehicle unattended without locking the ignition and removing the key, effective statewide since 1959.
- Local ordinances in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco impose additional restrictions, such as banning remote starts unless the vehicle is within 50 feet of the operator.
- 2026 compliance shifts under SB 1014 (2023) mandate that all new vehicles sold in California must include automatic engine shutoff systems for unattended idling, aligning with the state’s 2045 carbon neutrality goals.
Enforcement prioritizes high-theft areas, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses. Exceptions exist for emergency vehicles or when the operator is within 100 feet of the vehicle, provided the engine is not left running for more than five minutes. Violators face fines ranging from $35 to $250, depending on local court discretion. The CHP’s “Lock It or Lose It” campaign further underscores the legal and safety risks of non-compliance.