No, leaving a car running unattended in Romania is generally prohibited under traffic safety laws, with exceptions for extreme weather conditions or operational necessities, as outlined in the Law on Road Traffic Safety (Law 471/2002) and enforced by the General Inspectorate of Romanian Police (IGPR). Violations may result in fines up to RON 1,500 (approx. €300) under Government Emergency Ordinance 195/2002, particularly in urban areas where theft risks are elevated.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Romania
- Urban Restrictions: Municipalities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca enforce local ordinances (e.g., Bucharest City Hall Order 123/2023) banning unattended idling in high-risk zones, with penalties escalating during winter months when thefts surge.
- Weather Exceptions: Temporary exemptions apply during temperatures below -10°C or above 35°C, but drivers must remain within 5 meters of the vehicle and display hazard lights per IGPR Circular 14/2024.
- Commercial Vehicles: Trucks and delivery vehicles may idle for loading/unloading under Ministry of Transport Order 1,200/2021, but only if parked in designated zones and equipped with anti-theft devices.
Enforcement prioritizes public safety and anti-theft measures, with automated cameras in Bucharest and Iași monitoring violations. Non-compliance risks not only fines but also liability for accidents caused by unattended vehicles.