Urban mobility is evolving, and Valencia is joining the cities implementing measures to improve air quality and promote a healthier environment. Starting in 2025, the city will introduce its Low Emission Zone (LEZ), aiming to reduce pollution and encourage sustainable transport.
If you live in Valencia, visit frequently, or plan to travel there, this article is for you. Here, we explain what the LEZ is, when it will be enforced, what fines will be imposed, which vehicles can enter, and what mobility alternatives are available.
📍 Areas Covered by Valencia’s LEZ
The Low Emission Zone (LEZ) of Valencia, known as “València ZBE”, will cover 27.8 km² and will be delimited by the following main roads:
- Ronda Norte: Connects key neighborhoods in the northern part of the city.
- Avenida de los Naranjos: Located near the university and residential areas in eastern Valencia.
- Calle Serrería: Located in the maritime district, linking to the port area.
- Bulevar Sur: Surrounds Valencia to the south, facilitating mobility towards the west and southwest.
Initially, Ciutat Vella Nord was proposed as a separate LEZ, but it has been maintained as a Residential Priority Area (APR) with additional traffic restrictions.
📅 When Will Valencia’s LEZ Be Enforced?
The LEZ in Valencia will be implemented in several phases:
- Until November 30, 2025 → Informative phase: Drivers will be notified without fines.
- From December 1, 2025 → Fines begin for highly polluting vehicles registered outside the province of Valencia.
- From January 1, 2027 → Fines extend to highly polluting vehicles registered in the province of Valencia (except those registered in the city).
- From January 1, 2028 → Full restrictions apply to all highly polluting vehicles, including those registered in Valencia.
This gradual approach allows citizens to adapt to the regulations without disrupting mobility.
🚦 Which Vehicles Can Enter Valencia’s LEZ?
🔹 Vehicles ALLOWED to enter:
✅ Residents within the LEZ with authorization.
✅ Vehicles with an environmental label: 🚘 CERO, ECO, C, and B from Spain’s DGT.
✅ Public transport, taxis, and private hire vehicles (VTCs).
✅ Company and self-employed vehicles used for essential activities.
✅ Vehicles for people with reduced mobility.
✅ Vehicles for large families and those with children under three years old.
✅ Emergency and essential service vehicles.
🔹 Vehicles NOT allowed to enter:
❌ Cars without an environmental label (Label A) → Diesel before 2006 and gasoline before 2000.
❌ Non-resident vehicles without authorization.
❌ Tourists not staying in hotels with special permits.
🔹 Exception: A maximum of 48 annual accesses to the LEZ will be granted for highly polluting vehicles that do not meet the requirements.
💸 Fines and Penalties in Valencia’s LEZ
Starting in December 2025, fines will be applied progressively:
📌 Examples of penalties:
🔴 Driving without permission: €150 – €200.
🟠 Parking without authorization: €100.
🟡 Repeat offenses: Possible vehicle removal.
🚲 Mobility Alternatives in Valencia
To help residents and visitors adjust to the LEZ, the city council has implemented sustainable mobility measures:
🚲 Expansion of bike lanes and bicycle rental services.
🚌 Improvements in public transport with increased frequency and new bus and tram routes.
🅿️ Park-and-ride facilities outside the LEZ, connected by public transport.
🔗 More details on new infrastructure: Visit Valencia
📜 What Law Requires Valencia to Implement an LEZ?
Spain’s Law 7/2021 on Climate Change and Energy Transition mandates that all cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants establish an LEZ.
Additionally, Royal Decree 1052/2022 defines the minimum requirements for these zones, including:
✅ Restricted access and circulation for highly polluting vehicles.
✅ Camera surveillance and automated fines.
✅ Monitoring indicators for air quality and sustainable mobility.
🔗 Full text of the law: MITECO
📍 How Will the LEZ Affect Residents and Tourists?
The LEZ in Valencia is a crucial step toward reducing pollution and modernizing mobility. While it requires some adaptation, it will bring long-term benefits:
✔ Less traffic and pollution 🚦
✔ More space for pedestrians and cyclists 🚲
✔ A more efficient and sustainable transport system 🌍
If you are a resident, apply for your authorization. If you visit Valencia, choose hotels with permits or use sustainable transport.
📢 Do you have questions about Valencia’s LEZ? Leave a comment and share this post.
🔗 Check official sources and stay informed.
📍 Follow all tourism and sustainability updates in Valencia on our blog.
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