Ann Arbor, MI Environmental Rules: Vehicle Idling Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Unoccupied commercial vehicle
- No idling permitted
- Occupied commercial vehicle
- Max 5 min per 60 min
- Minimum fine
- $100.00 per violation
- Cold-weather exception
- Below 32°F, no shelter nearby
Summary
Ann Arbor bans commercial vehicles from idling at all while unoccupied and caps idling at 5 minutes per 60-minute period when occupied, under the citywide Idling Reduction Ordinance.
(1)No Operator of a Commercial Vehicle shall cause or permit the Commercial Vehicle to Idle:(a)For any period of time while the Commercial Vehicle is unoccupied; or(b)For more than 5 minutes in any 60-minute period while the Commercial Vehicle is occupied.(2)No Operator of a Motor Vehicle shall cause or permit the Motor Vehicle to Idle within a posted "No Idling" zone designated by the City Administrator:(a)For any period of time while the Motor Vehicle is unoccupied; or(b)For more than 5 minutes in any 60-minute period while the Motor Vehicle is occupied.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26 Update 4).
Full Breakdown
City Code Chapter 72, § 6:603 bars any Commercial Vehicle operator in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, from idling at all while the vehicle is unoccupied, and caps idling at 5 minutes per 60-minute period while occupied; the same 5-minute cap applies to any motor vehicle idling in a posted No Idling zone. Exceptions cover traffic delays, defrosting or safety emergencies, extreme cold (below 32°F) or heat (above 85°F) without nearby shelter, buses loading passengers, and active auxiliary equipment like refrigeration units or lifts. Violations are a civil infraction with a minimum $100 fine per offense.
Violations & Fines
A civil infraction with a minimum fine of $100.00 per violation; the registered owner is presumed responsible when the operator isn't identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a truck idle in Ann Arbor?
Is there a fine for illegal idling in Ann Arbor?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ann Arbor
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