Málaga and Albacete low-emission zones spark legal and political disputes

The Malaga low‑emission zone (ZBE) has issued about 10,000 fines of €200 each in its first two months. The Andalusian High Court annulled part of the ordinance, judging it discriminatory against vehicles without resident registration, and the city council has appealed the decision to the Supreme Court while continuing to enforce the scheme.

In Albacete, the city council approved a ZBE covering nine central streets, complying with Spain’s climate‑change law. The measure does not restrict resident drivers; it only requires non‑resident, non‑tagged vehicles to obtain a ticket or use designated parking. Officials say the zone will secure €4‑5 million in EU funding and has minimal impact on everyday mobility.

Both municipalities face controversy over the balance between air‑quality goals, financial penalties and legal challenges, highlighting the broader debate on low‑emission policies in Spanish cities.