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Anti-Idling
Statewide motor vehicle idling is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and NJAC 7:27-14,15.
On September 3, 2024, Middletown Township adopted Resolution 24-250 to enact its own townwide “No Idling” campaign and implement signage at specific locations throughout town. Frequent locations of idling had been previously mapped in 2010. The town will update this map (PDF) as needed.
The “Clear the Air” campaign seeks to stop the idling of vehicles by posting signage throughout town, as well as offering public education to residents, bus drivers, and commercial establishments about why idling is illegal and how it is bad for our health, the environment, and our wallets. According to the NJDEP, cutting down to eight minutes of idling per day results in an annual savings of $67 for 4-cylinder engines and $134 for 8-cylinder engines. Idling diminishes air quality, increases the risk for asthma and heart disease, and creates a noise and odor nuisance. Idling also wastes fuel and therefore money.
The campaign encourages residents to follow its motto and limit idling for “10 seconds, then shut off the engine!”. When not in traffic, idling should be limited to 10 seconds. The vehicle should be turned off if idling will last longer than that.
The Health Department will reach out to local businesses and other points of frequent idling to educate about the regulation.
Residents can report idling complaints to the Middletown Township Police Department at 732-615-2100 since they cover idling under motor vehicle statutes. Certain exceptions will be made for emergency responder vehicles, DPW vehicles, and vehicles that are being serviced at a mechanic.
Additional Resources
The resources below are PDFs.