Colorado Police Warn Residents They’ll Be Fined For ‘Puffing’ — And No, It’s Not What You Think
Image not from story. (Photo by STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images)
Westminster, Colorado, police are reminding drivers that warming up a vehicle by leaving it running unattended — a practice often called “puffing” — is illegal under state law and can make cars an easy target for thieves.
The warning is part of a broader effort by Colorado law enforcement agencies to reduce cold-weather vehicle thefts, which often spike when drivers leave cars idling in driveways or parking lots. Under Colorado’s “unattended motor vehicle” law, drivers must turn off the engine and remove the key before leaving an unlocked vehicle. A narrow exception exists for vehicles equipped with remote-start systems, as long as security measures are in place.
“Puffing is also ILLEGAL in Colorado (immobilizing remote start systems excluded) and may result in fines. Just don’t do it,” the Westminster Police Department said in a Feb. 14 public safety post.
The mornings have been a bit chilly! Remember, puffing (leaving your car running unattended) is ILLEGAL in Colorado. These are easy targets for thieves! Learn about more ways to prevent auto theft at https://t.co/BQxFwGe0XB.
*Immobilizing remote start systems are excluded pic.twitter.com/7KCTU4HLki
— Westminster Police (@WestminsterPD) December 29, 2025
The Colorado State Patrol has issued similar warnings, noting that cold mornings frequently lead to an increase in unattended, running vehicles. Troopers caution that the practice can result in fines and may leave drivers stranded if a thief drives away with their car.
Some agencies have paired education efforts with enforcement. During a previous statewide “Puffer Week” campaign, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said deputies increased patrols, issued warnings, and wrote citations for unattended idling vehicles. The sheriff’s office noted that a first offense carries a $60 fine.
Colorado’s LockDownYourCar.org, an auto-theft prevention initiative, also reminds drivers that leaving a vehicle running unattended is illegal unless it is equipped with a remote-start system and the keyless fob is far enough away to prevent the car from being driven.
About Post Author
