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PLYMOUTH, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Turning your car on for some extra warmth in the winter can come with a hefty fine in Mass.
It is common practice to turn a car on during the winter months to get a little extra warmth, but it can be illegal if you take too long. According to state law, it is illegal to leave a car idle for more than five minutes. The law does not apply to delivery drivers or auto mechanics.
Anyone who violates the law could receive up to a $100 fine for their first offense, and no more than $500 for every subsequent offense.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jim MacKay spoke to drivers, many of whom had no idea about the law.
“Yeah, I start my car as soon as I wake up,” said Heather from Plymouth, admitting to leaving her car running for as much as 30 minutes before driving.
“I think it’s illegal to be cold,” added Heather.
“I think, you know, some cars you should be able to do it and some you shouldn’t. Three minutes isn’t too long,” said Ryan from Plymouth.
Nancy said her neighbor sometimes leaves their car running for 30 minutes in the morning, to the point where she can smell exhaust in her kitchen.
“[They] said to me, ‘It’s really none of your business.’ I said, ‘Yes, it is because I’m breathing it,’” said Nancy.
WBZ's Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.
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