Spain mandates stricter enforcement of Low Emission Zones

A new Royal Decree published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) requires Spanish municipalities to strictly enforce Low Emission Zones (ZBE). Under the updated regulations, city councils must demonstrate that their restrictions on polluting vehicles are effectively applied through active monitoring and a functional sanctioning regime.

Previously, many municipalities implemented ZBEs with indefinite moratoria or without effective access controls. The new decree mandates that cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, island territories, and towns with over 20,000 inhabitants exceeding air quality limits must provide five specific proofs of compliance. These include active municipal ordinances, real restrictions on circulation and parking, operational access controls, integration with the National Traffic and Mobility Access Point, and an effective penalty system.

Failure to provide this documentation will result in the ZBE being considered improperly implemented. While the fine for violating access restrictions remains at 200 euros (reducible to 100 euros for prompt payment), the primary change is the elimination of the transitional phase of simple warnings. Municipalities must now ensure that ZBEs are not merely symbolic but are backed by real enforcement and monitoring.