Wales raises idle-engine fine to up to £150 to curb emissions

As of today, Wales implements a higher fine for drivers who leave their internal-combustion engines running while stationary, raising the maximum penalty to £150 from the former £20. The Welsh Government says the step is needed to cut air-pollution, noise and health risks, particularly around vulnerable sites such as schools and hospitals. Local authorities can issue fines between £75 and £150 after an officer asks the driver to turn off the engine and the driver refuses.

The policy follows Highway Code rule 123 and the Road Traffic Act 1988, which already criminalise idling for petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles, but not electric cars. Exemptions include traffic-light delays, emergency-vehicle equipment, vehicle repairs and private land. The government argues that reducing idle emissions will help protect public health and biodiversity.