Delaware Laws and Incentives for Idle Reduction

The list below contains summaries of all Delaware laws and incentives related to Idle Reduction.

State Incentives

Idle Reduction Weight Exemption

Any motor vehicle equipped with qualified idle reduction technology may exceed the state gross, axle, tandem, or bridge weight limits by up to 400 pounds to account for the weight of the technology. The additional weight may not exceed the actual weight of the idle reduction unit. To qualify for the exemption, the vehicle operator must also be able to prove the weight of the idle reduction technology and demonstrate that the technology is fully functional. (Reference Delaware Code Title 21, Chapter 45, Section 4503f)

Laws and Regulations

State Agency Energy Plan

To improve air quality and reduce operating expenses from state vehicle use, all state agencies must reduce petroleum consumption by 25%, vehicle emissions by 25%, and vehicle miles traveled by 15% as compared to Fiscal Year 2008 levels by the end of 2012. This will be achieved through alternative fuel vehicle acquisition, alternative fuel use, and implementation of idle reduction measures. (Reference Executive Order 18, 2010)

Idle Reduction Requirement

On-road heavy-duty motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or greater may not idle for more than three consecutive minutes when the vehicle is stationary. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $500 for each offense. Heavy-duty vehicles subject to this regulation include long-haul and delivery trucks as well as transit and school buses. Emergency fire, rescue, and lifesaving vehicles are exempt. Other vehicle operating situations may also fall under the exemption section of the regulation. (Reference Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Regulation 1145)