No, leaving a car running unattended is illegal in Peru under Decreto Supremo 024-2017-MTC, which mandates engine shutdown when unattended. Violations risk fines up to S/ 1,800 (≈$500) and vehicle impoundment by Municipal Police or Policía Nacional del Perú. Recent 2026 amendments under Ley 31823 tighten enforcement in high-risk zones like Lima’s Zona de Alto Tráfico.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Peru
- Engine Shutdown Mandate: DS 024-2017-MTC (Art. 21) requires drivers to turn off engines when leaving vehicles unattended, even briefly. Exceptions apply only for emergency stops or traffic congestion.
- Municipal Enforcement: Local governments (e.g., Municipalidad de Lima) deploy Serenazgo and traffic cameras to monitor violations, issuing fines via Ordenanza Municipal 2101.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Ley 31823 expands penalties to include license suspension for repeat offenders and mandates GPS-based tracking in stolen-vehicle hotspots.