Pollution control - penalty notice
Pollution control - penalty notice, car idling - regulation and application for services
Local authorities are authorised under the Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) (England) Regulations 2002 to stop the idling of stationary vehicles. Where this is not complied with, authorised officers can issue a fixed penalty notice. These regulations were made in accordance with section 87(7) of the Environment Act 1995.
Why?
Stationary vehicles that have the engine running are emitting pollutants from the tailpipe. This contributes to poor air quality, effecting residents’ health. This can be a particular problem with buses waiting in stations, or drivers waiting to collect people from stations, hotels or schools.
There are times when it is acceptable for the engine to be idling for a short time, such as when defrosting a windscreen in winter or when a refrigerated lorry is delivering goods.
What does this mean for you?
The driver of a vehicle that is idling unnecessarily will be asked to switch off the engine. If the driver refuses then a fixed penalty notice will be issued, requiring the payment of a £20 fine.
The authorised officer will explain why the notice is being issued, and the rights of the driver. The driver must provide the following information:
- Name and address
- Date of birth
- Name of the person the vehicle is registered to, if the driver is not that person
Failure to provide this information is a further offence, and is liable to result in a prosecution leading to a further fine. If payment of the £20 is not made within 28 days, then the fixed penalty will be increased to £40.
Please contact Scientific Services if you know of any areas in Barnet where there are often idling vehicles.
Email this pageLast modified by: Webmaster on 14/11/2007