We are all guilty of this in winter…we go out to the driveway, start the vehicle, then go back inside while it warms up. After all, no one wants to bundle up and freeze in the car for 10 minutes. You may be wondering, is it illegal to leave a car running unattended in Oklahoma? Turns out, it is. While some other states have this rule due to emission restrictions, Oklahoma’s law states that it is illegal to leave your running vehicle unattended. Keep scrolling and we’ll tell you what the punishment is if you get caught.

Welcome to Oklahoma, where we still have obscure and crazy laws. Did you know it is illegal in the Sooner State to leave your running vehicle unattended?
oklahoma.gov
It's true. In the morning when you're trying to spare yourself those frigid moments in the car waiting for it to heat up, you're actually breaking the law.
Yes, that even means in your own driveway. We can maybe understand if you're in a public space but in your own driveway...really?
flickr/janice waltzer
That could start a whole other conversation about what rights you have on your own property, but we won't delve into that right now.
Many other states have this rule due to emission issues but that's not how Oklahoma's law reads.
flickr/brian muse
If you've ever wondered is it illegal to leave an unattended car running? We've got all the information.

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According to state statute 47 OK State § 47–11–1101, it is a misdemeanor punishable by a levied fine. It's up to the responding officer if they want to issue a citation. The good news is, many police officers say they don't write tickets for this...however, there are a few out there who will.
flickr/paul sableman
We guess it depends on whether they've met their ticket quota for the month. But the good news is you may be able to sweet talk your way out of this one.
If you're not a rule breaker, you may want to play it safe and stay with your vehicle if you leave it running. You can always spend time scraping your windows and freezing your hands.
flickr/eric parker
We love a multitasking moment!
Experts say modern vehicles don't need time to warm up; 30 seconds is all they need in cold weather and they are good to go. You could always clean out your garage and not have this dilemma on cold mornings.
flickr/mark brummett
But to be honest, heating the car up is less about the mechanics of the car and more about not having to drive in a cold space. You'll have to decide whether it's worth a fine to do so.

It is noteworthy to mention that vehicles get stolen every year out of people’s driveways that are left idling. So, you might think twice the next time you leave it to warm up without you or when you wonder is it illegal to leave a car running unattended? But does it really need to be illegal in Oklahoma? What do you think?

If you’re interested in reading about more weird laws in Oklahoma, check out our previous article “These 11 Crazy Laws In Oklahoma Will Leave You Scratching Your Head In Wonder.“

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Weird Laws In Oklahoma

CC | February 03, 2024

What are other crazy laws in Oklahoma?

Believe it or not, this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of weird laws in the state. Check out these other weird laws in Oklahoma while you’re exploring the legal system.

  • Whaling is illegal...because there are so many whales in Oklahoma.
  • You may be fined and/or jailed for making "ugly faces" at dogs.
  • It is illegal to have tissues in the back of your car.
  • Spitting on the sidewalk is illegal.
  • Taking a bite out of another's hamburger will not be tolerated.
  • Females are not allowed to do their own hair unless they are licensed by the state.
  • The mayor MUST sign a permit for groups of three or more dogs to congregate on private property.
  • Cars must be tethered outside of public buildings.

 

Where can I learn more Oklahoma history?

Want to learn more about these strange laws and where they came from? Visit these museums in Oklahoma.

  • Oklahoma City Museum
  • Oklahoma History Center
  • American Banjo Museum
  • Science Museum Oklahoma

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