Parents warned about fines of up to £80 for common mistake at school gates

With schools across the UK reopening in September, parents are being called upon to consider curbing their habits at school gates, with local councils stepping up enforcement of anti-idling laws.

What many motorists might consider a harmless act — keeping their car engine running during drop-off or pick-up — could wind up putting you out of pocket. Councils have the authority to fine drivers up to £80 for idling, a practice that also contributes to increasing levels of air pollution around schools.

The penalties fall under Rule 123 of The Highway Code, which states: You MUST NOT leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road.

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Generally, if the vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should apply the parking brake and switch off the engine to reduce emissions and noise pollution." The exceptions are "if the vehicle is stationary in traffic or for diagnosing faults".

Founder of 1dot, Ash Young, explained: "Idling means keeping your vehicle's engine running while it's not moving, which pumps unnecessary carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the air. Outside schools, that means children are breathing in pollutants at the exact moment they're most exposed."

The warning comes as officials and schools take stricter measures to reduce air pollution and limit the dangers associated with vehicle congestion around school entrances.

This year has seen tighter enforcement by local authorities, with patrols increasing near educational institutions, particularly those for youngsters. In most areas, fines begin at £20, doubling to £40 if they remain unpaid. In some London boroughs, heftier penalties of up to £80 are enforced.

More schools are introducing School Street schemes — timed restrictions placed on surrounding roads during drop-off and collection hours. Air pollution can have a serious impact on a child's development, including higher risks of respiratory problems including asthma, and has even been linked to reduced concentration in younger kids.

Also, with fuel prices remaining high in 2025, idling is not only environmentally damaging, but also expensive. According to the latest figures from the RAC, unleaded petrol now averages 134.64p per litre — an increase of more than 2p from the start of June. This means filling a typical 55-litre family car now costs £74.05, a sharp price hike of £1.33.

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Studies show that keeping an engine running unnecessarily for just ten minutes a day can use enough fuel over a year to fill an entire tank. With households already under pressure from the cost of living crisis, this waste adds up significantly.

There are several simple steps you can take to avoid fines and fuel wastage. Making sure children have their bags and coats ready before arriving at school can limit delays at the kerb. Turning off the engine when stationary for more than 30 seconds reduces emissions and wasting fuel.

Parking a short distance away and walking the remaining stretch is another good option. Many councils and schools provide designated park-and-stride locations to support healthier and safer school runs.

Expert Ash summed up the message nicely: "While idling can sometimes feel unavoidable, even small changes in our habits can have a big impact — both in protecting children's health and avoiding unnecessary costs."

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