To improve air quality in highly polluted city centres, some local authorities are introducing clean air zones (CAZ), also known as low emission zones (LEZ), to the UK.
If your car exceeds the emissions standards set for the zone, you may have to pay a charge to enter. London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is an existing example of how this might work.
ULEZ currently has the strictest emissions standards, so if a car is ULEZ compliant, it should be compliant for clean air zones elsewhere.
As the driver, it’s your responsibility to check whether your car meets the rules. You can use the Government’s clean air zone tool to see whether you’ll need to pay. You’ll need your number plate to start.
Emission Class
On our website, you will see the emission class in the overview:
The emissions rating of your vehicle will affect whether or not you will need to pay a charge for driving through ‘Clean Air Zones’ (CAZs) or London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Cars must have the following emissions ratings to avoid an automatic charge:
- Diesel: Euro 6
- Petrol: Euro 4 or higher
Hybrid cars must also meet the same standards.