Low Emission Zones (Zonas de Bajas Emisiones – ZBEs in Spanish) are being rolled out across Spain meaning any municipality with over 50,000 inhabitants must implement traffic control measures to improve air quality and reduce pollution.
This is Upsticks summary guide for Andalucía, Murcia, Alicante and Comunitat Valenciana but as each autonomous community is different in terms of the locations, rules, fines and timeframe, we’ve included sources for more information and useful mobile apps.
Andalucía
- Seville: The city has already designated key areas with restricted access for non-compliant vehicles.
- Málaga: Plans to introduce stricter controls in central areas, with exemptions for certain residents and businesses.
- Granada, ZBE covering most of the city to be implemented from 1st April 2025 (subject to sign off by local government)
- Córdoba, Cádiz, and Almería: ZBE development is underway, with varying levels of restrictions plus construction of signage and monitoring equipment
- Torremolinos: ZBE went live in 2024 and the Town Hall will start implementing fines from 15 February 2025, but only to vehicles that are NOT registered in the town and that also don’t have an Eco-sticker
- Fuengirola: ZBE covering approximately 100,000 square meters across 18 sections in the center. However, as these areas are already semi-pedestrianized with existing traffic restrictions, the ZBE does not introduce major new limitations for drivers.
- Algeciras: The city is in the process of planning a ZBE, aiming to reduce emissions in central areas while balancing the needs of local businesses and residents.
- Benalmadena and Mijas will also need to bring in these zones but there’s been no information forthcoming regarding progress or implementation dates as yet
Murcia
- Cartagena: Implementing a ZBE focused on the Historic Centre and Ensanche area, monitoring traffic and emissions.
- Lorca: Working on a ZBE plan aimed at balancing heritage preservation with environmental sustainability.
- Murcia City: Plans are still under discussion, with delays in full implementation.
Alicante & Comunitat Valenciana
- Valencia: The ZBE has been approved but enforcement is limited, with full restrictions expected in 2026.
- Alicante: A ZBE is technically in place but is in the early stages of enforcement
- Elche: Has implemented a ZBE but without major traffic restrictions.
- Benidorm: One of the strictest ZBEs in the region, regulating access to central areas with a grace period before fines.
- Torrevieja and Orihuela – will have to implement ZBE zones but no dates available yet
Top 5 Tips for complying with the new ZBE rules
- Check Your Vehicle’s Environmental Label – Every vehicle will need to show an Eco-Sticker on the windscreen – this article has more information on the stickers, what they mean and where to buy them. You can check your car’s environmental classification through the DGT website or app to see if it meets the required standards.
- Stay Updated on Local Regulations – Each city has different ZBE rules; regularly check municipal websites or the DGT for updates.
- Plan Your Route in Advance – Use Google Maps or dedicated ZBE apps to avoid restricted areas and find alternative routes.
- Apply for Exemptions if Eligible – Some vehicles, such as residents’ cars, emergency services, or essential business vehicles, may qualify for exemptions—check with local authorities.
- Consider Sustainable Transport Alternatives – Opt for public transport, cycling, or switching to an eco-friendly vehicle to ensure long-term compliance.
How will the ZBEs be monitored?
Vehicles will be monitored using a combination of technology and manual methods, including ANPR (automatic number plate recognition), CCTV, traffic and municipal police, DGT database integration and mobile/online reporting where residents can report vehicles that are breaking the rules.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The consequences vary by city but could include:
- Fines: Penalties for non-compliant vehicles entering restricted areas can range from €100 to €200, depending on local regulations.
- Increased Restrictions: Repeat offenders may face additional sanctions, such as higher fines or prolonged exclusion from ZBE areas.
- Towing and Impoundment: In some cases, unauthorized vehicles may be towed if they repeatedly violate ZBE rules.
- Limited Access to Services: Non-compliant vehicles may be denied entry to public parking areas and certain urban zones.
Where to Find More Information
For up-to-date details on ZBEs in Spain, including maps and regulations, visit:
- Urban Access Regulations: https://urbanaccessregulations.eu/countries-mainmenu-147/spain/spain-lez
- Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT): https://www.dgt.es
- Additional ZBE Information and Updates: https://www.ecociudades.es/
Useful Mobile Apps
To check if your vehicle is compliant or to find ZBE locations, consider using these apps, available for Android and Apple at the relevant Store
- DGT App (Android & iOS) – Provides environmental label information and ZBE maps.
- Green Zones – Helps locate and navigate ZBEs in Spain and across Europe.
- ZBE Info – Offers details on vehicle access and restrictions in various Spanish cities.
- Google Maps – Now includes a ‘Z’ icon for ZBE areas, helping drivers identify restricted zones easily while navigating
- Bip&Drive: Toll road app with good information about ZBE/LEZ across much of Europe.
Good to know
Restrictions are likely to be significantly reduced if you’re a resident of the relevant municipality/town/city, and pay your IVTM in the town. If you need to work in a ZBE area or have reduced mobility, you might be able to apply for special permission or ZBE exemptions so check with the local authorities.
Several cities have put large car parks in place outside the ZBE for vehicles that can’t enter the areas and some will be set up as “park and ride” during high volume periods like holidays and fiestas. It’s also worth noting that some ZBEs only apply on weekdays for example, and can be suspended completely on bank holidays and festival days.