How to avoid an air conditioning fine

As news of blackouts caused by overloaded power grids spreads across Italy and our social feeds fill up with photos of tourists in European cities devastated by the hellish heatwave, some are starting to question the legitimacy of excessive air conditioning use in shops and private homes. But what about using air conditioning while driving? Are there cases in which it's actually prohibited in your car? You may be surprised to learn that the answer is yes and that hefty fines may apply.

Car air conditioning: fines under the highway code

First, let’s clarify some terms. The Italian Highway Code (Codice della Strada, or CdS) makes a distinction between:
• “Arresto” (Stop): a temporary halt of the vehicle due to traffic conditions or road needs;
• “Fermata” (Brief Stop): a short suspension of movement, even in areas where parking isn’t allowed, to let passengers in or out or for other very short-term needs;
• “Sosta” (Parking): a longer halt of the vehicle, during which the driver may leave the vehicle.

According to Article 157, paragraph 7-bis of the Highway Code, using air conditioning while the vehicle is parked (sosta) can result in a fine. More specifically, if the vehicle is left stationary for more than a few seconds with the AC running, you risk an administrative fine ranging from €223 to €444.

This rule applies to situations of complete vehicle stop classified as “sosta” and does not apply to brief halts like “arresto” and “fermata” for instance, stopping momentarily to let a passenger out or in heavy traffic. On the other hand, waiting for your child outside summer camp with the engine and air conditioning running counts as a misuse that could result in a fine.

Car air conditioning fines: are there exceptions?

There are no exceptions to this rule not even during extreme heatwaves like the ones we’re currently experiencing. The reasoning behind the regulation is environmental: its main goal is to reduce CO₂ emissions during idle periods.

Therefore, using air conditioning while parked is prohibited for all fuel-powered vehicles (whether diesel, petrol, LPG, or methane), but the rule does not apply to electric vehicles, as their environmental impact is negligible.