Tulare County, CA Environmental Rules: Vehicle Idling Restrictions (2026)

Section 3-04-1020 implements Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, section 2485, into the county's own Ordinance Code so drivers have a local reference to the state idling limits. Section 3-04-1010 defines the reach: the chapter applies to diesel-fueled commercial motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds that operate in the unincorporated areas of Tulare County and are, or must be, licensed for highway use, covering both California-based and non-California-based rigs. ' Section 3-04-1030 lists fourteen exceptions to the primary-engine limit, covering situations like buses idling up to 10 minutes before boarding or with passengers aboard, vehicles stopped by traffic control or a peace officer, queuing more than 100 feet from a restricted area, mechanical breakdowns, safety inspections, power take-off equipment such as concrete mixers or refuse trucks, and emergency vehicles.

Section 3-04-1015 pulls its definitions directly from Title 13, section 2485(h) and the Vehicle Code rather than restating them, so those state definitions control if there is ever a conflict. Section 3-04-1035 makes clear the chapter does not excuse idling that violates other law, including Vehicle Code section 22515 and Health and Safety Code section 40720.