University of Maine Vehicle Idle Policy
Type: Policy
Status: In Effect
Source File: http://www.sustainability.umaine.edu/VehicleIdlePolicy.pdf
Text:
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to eliminate unnecessary idling of all vehicles on university
property. Vehicle idling wastes fuel, degrades air quality, and causes unnecessary
emission of pollutants and greenhouse gases that enhance the natural greenhouse
effect. This policy is in accordance with the University of Maine's efforts to reduce CO2
emissions under the Governor's Carbon Challenge.
Policy:
It is the policy of the University of Maine at Orono to continually improve the efficient use
of vehicle fuels in an effort to reduce emissions and operating costs. To reduce overall
emissions on campus and improve air quality, all vehicles on university property are
prohibited to idle unnecessarily. Vehicle operators will adhere to the following
standards:
- 1) Idling is prohibited (with the limited exceptions listed below) when the ambient temperature is above 32° F.
- 2) 5 minute maximum idle time limit when ambient temperature is 32° F and below.
- 3) Vehicles will not be left idling when the operator is away from the vehicle (with the limited exceptions listed below).
- 4) Idling is prohibited in "No Idle Zones". Signs indicate the location of these zones.
Exceptions
The following exceptions apply to this policy:
- Emergency response vehicles when responding to an emergency.
- Vehicles that must maintain a specific temperature for onboard materials.
- Health or safety reasons (e.g., severe weather conditions, use of vehicle safety features).
- Below 0°F for diesel vehicles.
- Traffic conditions
- Supervisors may approve exemptions for specific vehicles if necessary.