Colorado § 42-4-1206 - Unattended motor vehicle - definitions.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1206 — Unattended motor vehicle - definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42-4-1206. Unattended motor vehicle - definitions.
(1) A person driving or in charge of an unlocked motor vehicle shall not permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition, and effectively setting the brake thereon. When the vehicle is standing upon any grade, the person shall turn the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway in such a manner as to prevent the vehicle from rolling onto the traveled way.
(2) Any person who violates any provision of this section commits a class B traffic infraction.
(3) The use or operation of a remote starter system or adequate security measures is sufficient to comply with subsection (1) of this section.
(4) As used in this section:
(a) "Adequate security measures" includes, but is not limited to:
(I) Using a vehicle that requires a key to put the vehicle into gear and move the vehicle;
(II) Keeping a keyless start fob out of proximity of the vehicle; or
(III) Employing steering wheel security devices.
(b) "Remote starter system" means a device installed in a motor vehicle that allows the engine of the vehicle to be started by remote or radio control.
(5) Nothing in this section preempts or otherwise impairs the power of local authorities to enforce or enact ordinances or resolutions concerning time limits on the idling of motor vehicles within one year after August 10, 2016.
Source: L. 94: Entire title amended with relocations, p. 2372, § 1, effective January 1, 1995. L. 2016: Entire section amended, (HB 16-1122), ch. 62, p. 163, § 1, effective August 10. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1296), ch. 296, p. 1807, § 1, effective May 29.
Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 42-4-1106 as it existed prior to 1994, and the former § 42-4-1206 was relocated to § 42-4-1404.
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 42-4-1206
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1206 cover?
Section 42-4-1206 ("Unattended motor vehicle - definitions.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 42-4-1206?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1206" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 42-4-1206 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.