Leaving the engine running while waiting: an environmental offence that may cost you €80
In Germany, leaving your engine running without a clear necessity while the vehicle is stationary – especially in urban areas, but even on private property – is no longer seen as a harmless everyday habit. It is now treated as a punishable environmental offence, intended to protect both the environment and residents from avoidable noise and exhaust fumes.
Under Section 30 (1) of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), it is prohibited to cause avoidable noise or exhaust emissions in road traffic while a vehicle is stationary.
In addition, many cities apply environmental and noise protection laws (such as LImSchG). These can impose strict fines even when a car is left idling on what appears to be private property, if there is no clear necessity for the engine to be running.
In typical cases, the standard fine is around €80, a guideline amount applied since April 2020.
In some federal states or major cities, the fine can rise to significantly higher sums if the behaviour is classified as a serious breach of local environmental or noise regulations.
Idling is usually regarded as unnecessary in situations such as:
Extended waiting at the roadside or in front of buildings with the engine running, simply to “wait a bit” or make it easier for passengers to get in or out.
Running the engine to heat the windscreen or cabin in winter without any immediate intention to drive off.
Sitting in the car with the engine running for a longer period while waiting for an appointment, a pick-up or a delivery, instead of switching the engine off and restarting when needed.
By contrast, it is generally not considered a violation when:
Children, sick persons or other vulnerable passengers are in the vehicle and a genuine health-related reason makes temporary heating or cooling necessary.
You are stuck in traffic or at traffic lights, where turning the engine off might disrupt the flow of traffic or create a safety risk.
There are several reasons behind the tougher approach:
Reducing air pollution caused by unnecessary exhaust emissions.
Lowering noise levels in residential neighbourhoods, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
Reinforcing the idea that driving is not just a private convenience, but also a legal and environmental responsibility towards others.
These rules support the broader shift towards sustainable mobility and encourage drivers to adapt their daily habits for the sake of cleaner, quieter cities.
Switch off the engine as soon as you stop, even if you think you will be moving again in a few minutes.
If there is a child, a patient or another vulnerable person in the car, make sure there is a clear, legitimate health reason for keeping the engine running, and that you are not violating any local regulations.
Use your vehicle’s start–stop function if available, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.
Remember that environmental rules are part of modern “smart city” concepts – ignoring them can cost you money and goodwill.
Letting your engine run while waiting without a real need can easily cost you €80 or more.
But this is about more than just fines: it is about protecting people’s health, improving air quality and preserving peace and quiet in residential areas.
A simple rule can help:
If you’re not driving, switch it off.
The editorial team behind this article strives to provide accurate information based on careful research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or certain details may be incomplete or not definitively verified. Please regard this information as an initial reference only, and always consult the relevant authorities for binding and up-to-date guidance.
