No, Puerto Rico prohibits leaving a vehicle running unattended under Ley Núm. 22 de 2000 (Vehicle and Traffic Law), with enforcement by the Policía de Puerto Rico and Autoridad de Carreteras. Violations may incur fines up to $500, and local ordinances in San Juan or Ponce often impose stricter penalties. The 2026 Plan de Seguridad Vial emphasizes crackdowns on idling to reduce theft and emissions.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Puerto Rico
- Statutory Ban (Art. 10.02): Leaving a motor vehicle running unattended violates Ley Núm. 22, with exceptions only for remote-start systems or running vehicles in driveways with the owner within 200 feet.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like San Juan (Ordenanza 2023-04) and Ponce (Reglamento 2024-12) impose additional fines (up to $1,000) and impoundment for repeat offenses.
- Enforcement Priorities: The Policía de Puerto Rico and Autoridad de Carreteras target idling under the 2026 Plan de Seguridad Vial, prioritizing high-theft zones (e.g., Santurce, Hato Rey).