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 ZBE is a designated area in a city where access is restricted to the most polluting vehicles in order to reduce emissions and improve air quality. These zones are already active in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and Benidorm is now taking steps to follow suit.
🗺️ Where is it located?
The LEZ covers the old town and city center. 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?
The following vehicles are allowed:
🟢 Vehicles with a Zero Emissions Badge
🟡 Vehicles with an ECO Badge
🔵 Vehicles with C or B Badges (may have future restrictions)
🏠 Vehicles owned by registered residents in the zone
♿ Vehicles for people with reduced mobility
🚓 Municipal services, emergency, cleaning, and delivery vehicles
🛠️ Self-employed workers with jobs inside the zone
🏨 Tourists staying in the LEZ (if their accommodation has submitted the license plate)
📝 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 do fines start?
🔔 There is still no official date for the start of the fines for accessing the Benidorm ZBE.
According to information published by Benidorm Town Hall:
➡️ The Low Emission Zone (ZBE) is not yet operational, and therefore fines are not being imposed at this time.
However, the council has confirmed that the LEZ should be operational before the end of 2025, as required by national and European legislation (Climate Change Law and EU regulations).
When it is officially activated, the date of entry into force, the reporting period without penalties (usually 2-6 months in other cities) and from when actual fines will start to be issued will be publicly announced.
🔍 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 has no badge?
If you are a registered resident in the LEZ, you may drive within the zone during 2025. However, we recommend adapting as soon as possible, since restrictions could become stricter. The best option is to apply for authorization now.
🧠 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
✅ Conclusion
Benidorm’s Low Emission Zone is an essential step toward building a more sustainable and livable city 🌱. While it is not active yet, it’s important to prepare ahead of time and stay informed to avoid fines or surprises.
At Costa Blanca Tour Services S.L., we encourage you to share this information with others and follow our updates so you’re always in the know. 📢
💡 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.
