Low Emission Zones (LEZ) in Italy

Italy LEZ

There is no national scheme in Italy, but there are hundreds of locally organised Low Emission Zones across the country. In Italy the Low Emission Zones should not be confused with the Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZLT), zones of limited traffic which restricts traffic in hundreds cities, often to residents only. The ZLT zones are indicated by signs and enforced by cameras.  Often the use of ZLT prevents the need for an aditional LEZ. Low Emission Zones vary and can cover large areas, such as the Milan ‘Paw Print’ LEZ. This covers Milan up to Como, Varese and Lecco and everything in between. The Paw Print LEZ runs from 15 October to 15 April and applies to all diesel vehicles below Euro 3 and all petrol vehicles below Euro 1, which are restricted between 7.30am-7.30pm. In an emergency situation, this can be increased to a ban on all vehicles. In contrast, the town of Lucca permanently bans all Euro 1 vehicles. The Bolzano Zone restricts access for diesel engines Euro 4 and below and requires Italians to display a sticker, but foreign vehicles need to show log books to police if asked. Although the restrictions vary between cities, there are no fees to pay or permits to obtain. Unless you have a Euro 5 or Euro 6 engine, avoid the centres and use public transport to get in, you’ll probably find this also improves your stress levels! However, if you find yourself in the wrong zone, fines vary from €75-€450.

Image © D66 Utrecht, CC license granted via Flickr.