No. Leaving a car running unattended in Greece is prohibited under the Highway Code (Article 41, Law 2696/1999) and local municipal ordinances, with enforcement by the Hellenic Police and municipal authorities. Violations risk fines up to €150 and vehicle impoundment, particularly in urban zones like Athens and Thessaloniki where anti-idling campaigns are active. The 2026 National Air Quality Action Plan further tightens enforcement, mandating real-time monitoring in high-pollution areas.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Greece
- Highway Code Restrictions: Article 41 explicitly bans leaving a vehicle running without a driver present, applicable nationwide. Exceptions exist only for emergency stops or mechanical issues, requiring immediate hazard warnings.
- Municipal Ordinances: Cities like Athens and Thessaloniki impose additional bans in designated low-emission zones (LEZs), with penalties escalating during smog alerts. Fines range from €50 to €200, depending on local enforcement.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The National Air Quality Action Plan introduces stricter penalties and mandatory engine-off policies during high-pollution episodes, enforced via traffic cameras and police patrols. Non-compliance may trigger vehicle confiscation.