Texas Truck Idling Law
Texas has no rule that covers the whole state. A state regulation sets a 5-minute limit (30 TAC 114.512), but by its own terms (114.511) it applies only inside cities and counties that adopt and enforce it. In practice roughly 37 cities (Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso and others) and 10 counties enforce a 5-minute limit, mostly through their own ordinances; only about 7 cities and 2 counties still hold a TCEQ enforcement agreement. Trucks 14,000 pounds and under are exempt, as are 2008-and-newer Certified Clean Idle engines. Fines are set by each city.
When you can keep idling
- Trucks 14,000 lbs GVWR or less
- 2008-and-newer engines certified under 30 g/hr NOx (Certified Clean Idle)
- Stuck in traffic beyond the driver's control
- Emergency, law-enforcement, and military vehicles
- Hours-of-service rest when no shore power is within 2 miles
APUs and idle-reduction gear
The rule limits the main engine, so an APU keeps you legal. Idle-reduction tech earns up to a 550-pound weight allowance.
City and county ordinances
- Roughly 37 cities (Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso and others) and 10 counties enforce a 5-minute limit — most now through their own municipal ordinances. Only about 7 cities (Houston, Austin, El Paso, Plano, Mesquite, Corinth, Terrell) and 2 counties (Travis, Bastrop) hold a current TCEQ enforcement agreement (MOA).
Texas Idling Law FAQ
Is there a truck idling law in Texas?
How long can a truck idle in Texas?
What is the fine for idling in Texas?
Does an APU count as idling in Texas?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/laws/IR?state=TX. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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