The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a British government initiative to clean up the air in the City of London, due to the high levels of pollution and the health consequences it was causing.
It began in April 2019, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan setting the world's strictest standard for air quality preservation.
It is estimated that "air pollution costs the capital up to £3.7 billion a year, and £20 billion a year for the country as a whole. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will help tackle the health crisis caused by toxic air in London, which currently causes thousands of premature deaths each year and increases the risk of asthma, cancer and dementia," according to the press release issued by the city's mayor.
How does it work?
Vehicles that do not comply with emissions regulations and are not exempt will be required to pay a daily charge of £12.50.
Vehicles to which the regulations apply:
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Vans
- Special vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes
- Minibuses up to 5 tonnes
How to pay Ultra Low Emission Zone
Many drivers have chosen to purchase vehicles that comply with the regulations, but if your vehicle does not comply, there are several ways to pay:
- Payment in advance
- Pay within 3 days of your journey (before midnight)
- Automatically, subject to prior configuration
You can pay online or via the Android and Apple mobile apps.
Another payment method is by telephone using the following numbers:
- National: 0343 222 2222 (charges may apply)
- International: +44 343 222 2222
- Text message: 020 7649 9123 (for hearing impaired)
Where is the ULEZ zone in London?
It covers the City of London and 32 boroughs, with the M25 orbital motorway as the boundary, but not including it.
Ultra Low Emission Zone Map
If you are travelling near the boundaries and are unsure whether you have to pay the ULEZ charge, you can check by entering your postcode before starting your journey.
This way, you can plan ahead and avoid paying the charge if possible.
What cars are ULEZ compliant?
Vehicles that comply with the relevant Euro standard will be exempt from paying the ULEZ charge and will therefore be able to circulate freely:
- Euro 3: for motorcycles, mopeds, tricycles and quadricycles (category L)
- Euro 4: (NOx) for petrol cars, vans, minibuses and other special vehicles
- Euro 6: (NOx and PM) for diesel cars, vans, minibuses and other special vehicles
You can check whether your vehicle complies with the regulations in its documentation and on the official Transport for London website.
How to apply for ULEZ exemptions
Applications must be made online, attaching the documents supporting the application in the appropriate section.
You may be eligible for a refund, discount or exemption from payment in the following cases:
- People with disabilities
- Private or rental wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- People who already receive disability benefits
- People who are responsible for people with disabilities
- Suffering from a terminal illness or severe blindness
- NHS (National Health Service) patients
- Taxis
- Community transport minibuses
- Historic vehicles with exemptions
- Other special vehicles (military, agricultural, excavators, cranes, etc.)
- Some vehicles used for travelling shows
Difference between LEZ and ULEZ
The ULEZ and LEZ (Low Emission Zone) cover exactly the same area. The difference lies in the vehicles assessed.
While the former covers all vehicles under 3.5 tonnes or up to 5 tonnes for minibuses, the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) includes all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, and buses, minibuses and coaches over 5 tonnes.
These vehicles will be subject to the charge if they do not comply with Euro 6 emissions standards.
If they do comply, they will be exempt, as in the case of ULEZ.
Difference between ULEZ and Congestion Charge
While ULEZ applies a pollution charge, the Congestion Charge zone applies a charge in areas where traffic is most concentrated, thus discouraging drivers from entering these areas during rush hour.
This tax is applied during peak hours:
- Monday – Friday: 07:00-18:00
- Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays: 12:00-18:00
- It will not apply on Christmas Day (25 December) or New Year's Day (1 January).
FAQs
We answer the most common questions about the Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Can I drive in the ULEZ area?
Yes, you can drive.
If your vehicle does not comply with the zone's emissions regulations, you will have to pay a £12.50 charge, which can be paid before your journey, within 3 days after your journey or automatically.
Can I get a fine/penalty in the ULEZ area?
Yes, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) if you do not pay the mandatory daily charge on time.
The fine will be £180, which can be reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days of issue.
Is Heathrow Airport in the ULEZ zone?
Yes, Heathrow and Heathrow Airport are part of the ULEZ area, which will be included in 2023.
Is Bristol a ULEZ area?
Yes, in addition to London, other cities have implemented restrictions or charges:
- Bath
- Birmingham
- Bristol
- Portsmouth
- Sheffield
- Tyneside (Newcastle and Gateshead)
