(Updated for 2026) Since January 1, 2023, all Spanish cities with over 50,000 inhabitants are required to establish a Low Emission Zone (ZBE). As a top tourist destination, Benidorm is preparing to implement this environmental system before the end of 2025.
But what exactly is a ZBE? And how does it affect you as a resident, visitor, or worker? We explain everything clearly below. 👇
🌍 What is a Low Emission Zone?
A LEZ is an urban area where vehicle access is regulated in order to reduce pollution, improve air quality and promote more sustainable mobility.
Its implementation is mandatory by law for all Spanish municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, according to the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law.
As a major tourist destination and high-density city, Benidorm has developed its own LEZ adapted to its urban reality.
🗺️ Where is it located?
The Low Emission Zone mainly affects:
- 🏘️ Old Town
- 🏖️ Central and tourist areas
- 🚶♂️ High pedestrian traffic zones
- 🛍️ Central commercial areas
These areas are clearly signposted and monitored by automatic number plate recognition cameras.
👉 Important: there is no “free access time”. Control is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.. Some of the streets included are:
- Av. de Ruzafa
- C/ Herrerías
- C/ Tomás Ortuño
- C/ Los Almendros
- C/ La Garita
- Plaza de SS.MM. Reyes de España
- C/ Escuelas
- C/ Mercado
📌 You can check the official map and full boundaries on the City Council’s website:
👉 https://benidorm.org/es/pagina/zbe
✅ Who can drive freely?
- 🚗 Electric vehicles (ZERO label)
- 🚙 Hybrid and ECO vehicles
- 🏠 Residents registered in Benidorm
- 🚑 Essential services (emergency, medical, security)
- ♿ People with reduced mobility (PRM)
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
In Benidorm, having a DGT environmental label is NOT enough.
👉 A municipal authorisation is required, unless you are a registered resident with your vehicle already registered.
📝 How can I apply for authorization?
There are two ways:
🔹 Online on the City Council website
🔹 In person at municipal offices (by appointment)
Official website of the Benidorm ZBE:
https://benidorm.org/es/pagina/zbe
You can also consult future ordinances or publications in the Official Bulletin of the Province (BOP) or the Benidorm Electronic Headquarters:
https://sede.benidorm.org
🔍 At present, the procedures for requesting authorisations for access to the Benidorm ZBE have NOT yet been opened.
According to official information published by the Town Hall:
📌 The Benidorm ZBE is not yet active and therefore:
- No fines are being issued.
- It is not necessary (nor possible for now) to apply for authorisations or permits.
⚙️ The Town Hall is developing the number plate control system, the signage and the definitive regulations, including:
- Types of authorised vehicles (residents, professionals, without a sticker…).
- Special cases (people with reduced mobility, workers, services, etc.).
- Portal for applying for temporary or exceptional permits.
📅 When does the LEZ come into force and when do fines start?
- 🔹 Information phase: early 2025
- 🔹 LEZ fully operational: from 1 July 2025
- 🔹 Fines: may already be issued if you enter without authorisation
Penalties are issued automatically and can reach up to €200, depending on the infringement.
🔍 Where to get official information?
Official website of the Benidorm ZBE:
https://benidorm.org/es/pagina/zbe
You can also consult future ordinances or publications in the Official Bulletin of the Province (BOP) or the Benidorm Electronic Headquarters:
https://sede.benidorm.org
📚 More official information
All regulations and the latest updates are available on the official Benidorm City Council website:
🔗 https://benidorm.org/es/pagina/zbe
🧑🔧 What if I’m self-employed and need to drive into Benidorm with an old car?
This is one of the most common concerns.
👉 This is a common issue. While vehicles without labels will face restrictions, Benidorm City Council is considering exceptions for self-employed professionals who need to enter the ZBE for work. Special authorizations or professional justifications may be required once the system is in place.
🔔 For now, there are no fines, but it’s recommended to stay informed through official channels.
💸 Are there financial aids to change my vehicle?
Yes! You can benefit from the MOVES III Program, which provides subsidies for purchasing electric or hybrid vehicles. You can also receive incentives for scrapping an old vehicle.
🔗 More info on MOVES III – IDAE
🚗 What if I rent a car as a tourist?
✔️ You can enter the zone as long as the vehicle has a valid environmental badge, and your accommodation has reported your license plate to the City Council in advance.
♿ What if I transport someone with reduced mobility?
You will be allowed to access the zone, provided you request the necessary authorization. These individuals are exempt under the current regulations.
❌ What if my car is old and has no environmental label?
This is one of the most common concerns.
Real example:
“I am self-employed, I work visiting clients in Benidorm, but my car is from 1998 and has no label. What can I do?”
🔎 Clear answer:
- Yes, you can apply for a special authorisation
- There are permits for workers, self-employed professionals and professional visits
- Each case is assessed individually by the City Council
👉 Not having a label does not automatically prevent you from working, but you must request authorisation.
🅿️ Can you park inside the LEZ?
- Parking inside the LEZ requires authorised access
- If your vehicle is not authorised, you cannot park inside
- Many underground car parks in the city centre are located within the LEZ
👉 Practical advice: use outer parking areas or zones outside the LEZ if you do not have authorisation.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is the ZBE already active in Benidorm?
👉 No, not yet. The City Council has until the end of 2025 to implement it. There are currently no fines being issued.
❓ Can I enter with my old car if I go to work or make deliveries?
👉 You may be eligible to apply for a special exemption if you’re self-employed or provide essential services. This system is not active yet.
❓ What happens if I enter with a non-compliant vehicle when the ZBE is active?
👉 Your license plate will be captured by ANPR cameras, and you may receive a fine unless you’re authorized.
❓ Can I ride my old motorbike into the ZBE?
👉 Motorcycles are also subject to restrictions. Models from before 2003 may not be allowed without special permission.
❓ What if I’m just visiting or on holiday?
👉 If your vehicle doesn’t have a DGT label, you likely won’t be able to drive within the ZBE, unless you have a hotel reservation or a temporary exemption. More details to come.
❓ How do I know if my vehicle can enter?
👉 Check your license plate on the DGT website or follow updates from Benidorm City Council.
❓ Which vehicles are fully exempt?
👉 🚙 Zero and ECO label vehicles
👮 Emergency and police vehicles
🧑🦽 Vehicles for people with reduced mobility (with permit)
🏨 Hotel guests with confirmed reservations
❓ Where can I get reliable information?
👉 The City Council’s official website:
🔗 https://benidorm.org/es/pagina/zbe
✅ Final summary: key points to remember
Workers and self-employed professionals do have options
The LEZ is already active
Fines can now be applied
Municipal authorisation is essential
A DGT environmental label alone is not sufficient
💡 Final tip
🌱 This initiative promotes a cleaner, greener and more sustainable city.
✅ Make sure your vehicle meets the requirements and your license plate is registered.
🚘 Avoid fines and contribute to a cleaner Benidorm.
🌍 Benefits of the LEZ for Benidorm
✔️ Reduced pollution
✔️ Less noise
✔️ More space for pedestrians
✔️ Better tourist experience
✔️ A healthier, more modern city
Benidorm is moving towards a more sustainable model, aligned with European standards and the future of tourism.
