No, Tennessee law generally prohibits leaving a vehicle running unattended under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-164, with exceptions for remote starts in certain jurisdictions. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Nashville Metro Police Department, further restrict idling near schools or government buildings. Violations may result in fines up to $250 under municipal codes, though enforcement varies by county.
Key Regulations for Leaving Your Car Running Unattended in Tennessee
- State Statute (Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-164): Prohibits leaving a motor vehicle unattended while the engine is running, unless the vehicle is locked or the key is removed. Exceptions apply for remote starts in residential areas, provided the vehicle remains within 50 feet of the operator.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Memphis and Knoxville impose stricter idling rules near schools, hospitals, or within 20 feet of intersections. Nashville’s Metro Code § 12.24.100 mandates a $100 fine for first offenses in designated no-idling zones.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) plans to expand anti-idling enforcement under the Clean Air Act amendments, targeting commercial vehicles in urban corridors. Operators of fleets exceeding 10 vehicles must adopt idle-reduction technologies by 2026 to avoid penalties.