Motorists across the Gedling borough face fines of £20 for leaving their engines running after new legislation was passed.
Gedling Borough Council officers have been given the power to issue £20 fines when drivers leave their engines running 'unnecessarily' while the vehicle is stationary and fail to stop it running.
The potential punishment, which increases to £40 if not paid within 28 days, will be adopted after anti-idling legislation was given approval at the council's environment and licensing committee on Tuesday, March 8.
The proposals were put forward by Kevin Nealon, community protection and pollution control manager, who said the council had received "a number of complaints" about engines which have been left idling, particularly around schools.
"People leave cars running during the winter to keep warm and during the summer to keep on the air conditioning," he said.
"It's thought they're adding to air pollution particularly around areas where there are particularly sensitive young lungs."
It is said that the legislation will help support the council's Air Quality Action Plan and Climate Change Net Zero work.
Speaking at the meeting, councillor Rachel Ellis said it was a "positive" step but said they must be enforced on the spot or "there's little point".
Mr Nealon said they intended to enforce it, however would take a "pragmatic" approach.
"I don't imagine we'll be giving the penalties out like confetti, it's going to be done on a case-by-case basis.
"It's about changing behaviour and educating people."
He added that the fine was "more of a token gesture".
Cllr Ellis added: "I suspect your most effective enforcement officers are going to be children."
Mr Nealon replied: "Let's hope so."
To read all the biggest and best stories first sign up to read our newsletters here.
