In 2025, new restrictions came into effect in Spain for vehicles that do not meet current environmental standards. Although some municipalities missed the deadlines for launching low-emission zones, four major cities have already implemented strict measures for vehicles with outdated specifications.
According to the new regulations, diesel cars registered after 2006, as well as gasoline vehicles produced from January 2001 that only comply with EURO 4 and 3 standards respectively, are now restricted from freely circulating in designated zones. These measures aim to reduce harmful emissions and combat air pollution, setting these cities apart from dozens of other municipalities with populations over 50,000 where the roll-out of such zones has been delayed.
The most extensive restrictions are in place in Madrid. In the Spanish capital, vehicles with environmental stickers B and C are not allowed in the central low-emission zone, except when the driver is parking the car in a private or public lot. Bilbao, Spain’s second-largest city, has implemented similar measures. In Bilbao, the ban on entry for vehicles with a low environmental class applies from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays. Getafe has also restricted vehicles with a B sticker from driving in its low-emission zone. Estepona (Málaga province) has become the smallest city to introduce such restrictions: here, the ban is enforced from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Madrid provides exceptions for certain categories of residents. People living in the central district who own vehicles of any environmental class—B, C, ECO, or 0—are allowed to enter the zone on a permanent basis. Entry is also permitted for people with limited mobility and those heading to a parking facility. Additionally, special permits and invitations allow third parties to enter with vehicles bearing a B sticker or with no environmental classification at all. Vehicles used for essential public services, including police, armed forces, and other government agencies, are likewise exempt from the restrictions.
Companies and individual entrepreneurs operating within the zone can obtain up to three permanent permits, as well as receive single-use invitations for entry.
Serious penalties are provided for violating the new regulations. Entering the low-emission zone without the appropriate permit in a vehicle with a B label is classified as a serious administrative offense. The fine for such an action can reach up to 200 euros.
