Idling
Idling engines produce harmful emissions that cause health and air quality problems. Turning off car engines while parked is an easy way to improve local air quality.
Anti-Idling By-law
In 2019, Town Council strengthened the Anti-Idling By-law (pdf), making it a violation for a vehicle to idle for more than three consecutive minutes except under certain circumstances.
Programs and resources
To request support for a school anti-idling campaign contact environment@oakville.ca.
The town runs an ongoing smog reduction education campaign, targeting town employees.
Town vehicles and equipment have stickers reminding staff not to idle.
Reduce your idling
- Turn the engine off when dropping off or picking up your child at school
- Don’t use a drive-thru. If you do, turn off the car as you wait
- Encourage others to turn their engines off whenever possible
- Limit your car use
- Run an Anti-Idling Campaign in your workplace or classroom. If you are interested in running a campaign please contact environment@oakville.ca.