Idling in Erie 

Cause and Effect 

With cold mornings comes the desire to warm up your vehicle before heading out for the day. Before you do, consider the costs of ‘puffing’ – car theft being one of them.  
   
While the ‘puffer’ law (CRS 42-4-1206) was crafted in 2016 to protect Colorado’s air from harmful emissions, it’s also possible to avoid the unfortunate side effect of vehicle theft. If your vehicle is left running unattended, you could receive a citation (even if you lock the doors).  

Exemptions 

• A vehicle with adequate security measures is exempt; these measures include, but are not limited to: 
• Using a vehicle that requires a key to put the vehicle into gear; 
• Keeping a keyless start fob out the proximity of the vehicle; and 
• Employing steering wheel security devices. 
• Emergency service vehicles (fire trucks, ambulances, and police) are exempt.   

Misconceptions 

• There is no amount of time idling is permitted.  
• There is no location which permits idling, i.e. private, public, or commercial property. 
• There is no temperature range that allows for idling.  

The Town of Erie Municipal Code does not currently address idling. Officers refer to the Colorado Revised Statues and Model Traffic Code for enforcement. 

More 

• For more information, please call 303-441-4444 or email pdcommandstaff@erieco.gov. 
• Engines Off Erie is an initiative led by the Town of Erie’s Sustainability Team. Learn more about the health and environmental impacts of running your vehicle share input in a vehicle idling survey.