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Idling Law No. NM No statewide limit

New Mexico Truck Idling Law

New Mexico has no statewide idling time limit. It regulates visible smoke instead: diesel exhaust may not exceed 30% opacity for more than 10 seconds below 8,000 feet, or 40% at higher elevation (NMAC 20.2.61.110). Idle-reduction gear earns up to a 400-pound weight allowance.

Statewide lawNo
LimitNo statewide limit (smoke rule only)
FineNone for idling time
StatuteNMAC 20.2.61.110 (smoke opacity)
01 Exemptions

When you can keep idling

This state has no statewide idling limit, so there are no statutory exemptions to list. Local ordinances, where they exist, carry their own.

02 APUs

APUs and idle-reduction gear

Idle-reduction gear earns up to a 400-pound weight allowance.

03 Local rules

City and county ordinances

No notable city or county idling ordinance was found for New Mexico in the EPA, DOE, or ATRI references. Watch local noise and parking rules.

New Mexico Idling Law FAQ

Is there a truck idling law in New Mexico?
New Mexico has no statewide truck idling limit. No notable local ordinance was found in the federal references, but local noise and parking rules can still apply.
How long can a truck idle in New Mexico?
No statewide limit (smoke rule only). See NMAC 20.2.61.110 (smoke opacity).
What is the fine for idling in New Mexico?
None for idling time.
Does an APU count as idling in New Mexico?
Idle-reduction gear earns up to a 400-pound weight allowance.

This page is reference information for planning, not legal advice. Idling rules change and many are local. Confirm the current rule with the state environmental or transportation agency before you rely on it. Source: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/laws/IR?state=NM.

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