There are no restrictions in effect at this time, including wood burning restrictions. Learn more.

Chandler sets rules on engine idling for city-owned vehicles

June 16, 2009

The Arizona Republic

Edythe Jensen

There's a new idling policy for Chandler employees and it has nothing to do with surfing the Internet on work time or napping on the desk. It's a limit on when workers are allowed to keep a city vehicle's engine running.

The rule was developed earlier this year by the city's fleet services officials to reduce air pollution and fuel costs without compromising safety, said municipal spokesman Jim Phipps. It prohibits idling of a stopped vehicle solely for the comfort of the driver and passengers or to cool a laptop computer. But idling is permitted to prevent a health and safety emergency or if the vehicle is having mechanical problems and might not restart.
Although city rules come with punishments, Chandler is giving workers some time to understand this one before idlers suffer consequences, Phipps said.
"As you can imagine, it takes time to educate 1,600 employees about new rules," he said, adding it is uncertain when typical punishments will take effect. Usually a first infraction prompts a talk with the boss while subsequent offenses carry more serious consequences like letters of reprimand, days off without pay, demotion and dismissal, Phipps said.
Residents who spot an idling city car or truck can report it to Jennifer Morrison, sustainability manager, 480-782-2237.

return to previous page