No, leaving a vehicle running unattended is prohibited under Rhode Island General Laws § 31-22-12, with exceptions for remote-start systems in residential driveways. Violations incur fines up to $500 under the 2024 Rhode Island Department of Transportation enforcement guidelines. Local municipalities like Providence may impose additional ordinances, such as mandatory engine shutdowns during winter months.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Rhode Island
- Statutory Ban: § 31-22-12 explicitly criminalizes leaving an unattended vehicle with the engine running, targeting theft deterrence and public safety risks.
- Remote-Start Exception: Vehicles equipped with manufacturer-installed remote-start systems are exempt if the driver remains within 50 feet of the vehicle, per RIDOT’s 2025 compliance bulletin.
- Winter Idling Restrictions: Providence and Pawtucket enforce seasonal bans (November–March) under local air quality ordinances, mandating engine shutdown after 5 minutes of idling.
Local law enforcement, including the Rhode Island State Police, prioritizes enforcement during high-theft periods, such as holiday shopping seasons. The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles may suspend licenses for repeat offenders under § 31-11-18. Municipalities like Warwick have adopted “Idle-Free” campaigns, aligning with the 2026 Rhode Island Climate Action Plan’s emissions reduction targets.