Encinitas Will Fine Fossil-Fueled Drivers

Using a complex formula that combines cubic centimeter engine displacement with miles driven, the city of Encinitas will soon begin fining drivers of gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles. Fines for drivers of vehicles powered by vegetable oils, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) will be reduced, as will those for drivers of hybrids. Electric vehicle drivers will not be fined.

The fines are the latest component of the city’s Climate Action Plan (CAP). Among the other components are encouraging biking and walking, converting the city fleet to electric or renewable diesel vehicles, banning two-stroke gas-powered leaf blowers, and installing charging stations and photovoltaic systems.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) citywide is a difficult and complex task. Old habits die hard. Generally, people resist change unless the benefits are clear and significant. Decades of experience show that taxing or fining anti-social behavior is most effective in altering it.

Fining fossil-fueled drivers will also increase city revenue. With 24,000 households having an average of 1.88 vehicles each, the vast majority of which are gas or diesel powered, the base of fine-eligible vehicles is about 45,000. Fines revenue has the potential to eclipse sales tax revenue.

The city will work closely with the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and auto insurance companies to establish the cubic centimeter displacement and annual miles driven for fine-eligible vehicles. Fine notices will be sent via the United States Postal Service (USPS). Fines on drivers who don’t cooperate will compound.