Fixed penalty notice for engine idling

[Project101]

Hi guys,

Slightly different to the usual we see.

I’ve been issued a fpn by a council officer for being In the car engine running. It’s very hot and I’m not going to lie had to ac on whilst I was waiting for someone.

I’ve Read in many places that they have to tell you to switch the engine off. I was not given the chance instead just given the fine. Ii
Didn’t even know it was an offence to be honest with you.

The officer said on camera that he watched me for 4 minutes with my engine on.. but on the ticket it says they observed me for 6
minutes?

im not sure if I have a leg to stand on. Do I just pay it?

[PallasAthena]

I have to admit I had no iea it was an offence either.

There is an explanation of the law here Engine idling law: is idling illegal in the UK? - Confused.com

It seems the offence is committed under Part 6 of the Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) (England) Regulations 2002. My interpretation of those regulations are that there are two different offences. One, under paragraph 12, is refusing to turn your engine off when told to do so by an 'authorised official'.The second under paragraph 13 says that if the official believes you have been idling your engine while stopped they can issue a penalty notice. The two offences aren't linked, there's no requirement to have been told turn your engine off before a penalty notice can be issued.

In my opinion you don't have any defence and if I were you I would just pay and chalk it up to experience.