In our previous article, we discussed that the final vote on the abolition of the French environmental sticker (Crit'Air / ZFE's) has been postponed again, likely until after the local elections on 15 and 22 March 2026.
While this means that the national requirement remains in place for now, local authorities can keep their own environmental zones, regardless of the outcome of national legislation. Several cities have already made clear decisions. Below, we outline the choices made by each city and the current status of their environmental zones.
Metropolises That Refuse to Bend: From Grenoble to Paris
Paris / Greater Paris
In the environmental zone of Paris (Greater Paris), restrictions currently apply to vehicles with Crit'Air labels 3, 4, and 5 within the A86 ring road. Although these vehicles are technically prohibited from driving in the zone, fines are not currently being issued. Authorities have extended the so-called educational phase by a year, allowing drivers more time to adjust. Meanwhile, the Métropole Roule Propre programme remains active: to date, 9,922 applications have been processed, and €39.8 million in financial support has been granted for cleaner mobility. The official stance of the metropolis is clear: the local environmental zone will remain in place even if the national regulations are abolished.
Lyon
The environmental zone of Lyon has prohibited vehicles with Crit'Air 3, 4, and 5 since 1 January 2025. Currently, fines are not systematically imposed, but effective sanctions are planned for offenders starting July 2026. Despite discussions at the national level, local authorities have confirmed that the environmental zone will remain and be enforced even after the national obligation for environmental zones is lifted.
Grenoble
In Grenoble, an environmental zone has existed for quite some time: vehicles with Crit'Air 3, 4, and 5 have been banned since 2017. Those who violate the rules risk a fine of €68. Local authorities have made it clear that they are committed to the system and that maintaining the environmental zone at the local level is essential for preserving a suitable living environment.
Rennes Métropole
The environmental zone of Rennes is implementing its rules gradually. Since 1 January 2025, vehicles without a Crit'Air sticker are banned. The next step is scheduled for 1 January 2027, when Crit'Air 5 will also be added to the prohibited categories. An improved control system is in place, and fines are being issued for violations. At the same time, a 24-hour ZFE pass remains available for drivers who need to drive through the city temporarily. However, the Ille-et-Vilaine motorcyclists' federation has lodged an appeal against including two-wheelers in the scheme, leaving the final stance still under consideration.
Montpellier
In Montpellier, temporary restrictions already apply to vehicles with Crit'Air 3, 4, and 5. The rules in the Montpellier environmental zone are enforced 24/7, but different restrictions apply for commercial vehicles and passenger cars. Fines may vary depending on the situation. The local authority has yet to make a final decision regarding the further rollout of the environmental zone.
Toulouse
Toulouse also implements temporary restrictions for vehicles with Crit'Air 4 and 5. Enforcement and fines have not been fully standardised and vary by period. Therefore, the future of the environmental zone remains a subject of political and administrative discussion.
Bordeaux
In Bordeaux, vehicles with Crit'Air 4 and 5 are banned. Sanctions may vary, and the city is still in a phase where further local regulations are being considered. No definitive decision has been made yet on whether the environmental zone will continue locally if the national legislation is abolished.
Nantes
The metropolis of Nantes has had an environmental zone since 1 January 2025. This environmental zone operates at certain times and prohibits vehicles without an environmental sticker. Fines are imposed on cars without an environmental sticker. No final decision has been made on whether the environmental zone will continue locally if the national legislation is abolished.
Strasbourg
In Strasbourg, an environmental zone has been in place since 1 January 2022. Vehicles with Crit'Air 3, 4, and 5 are banned. The city is preparing new decrees, and new prohibitions always have an educational phase where fines are not issued for one year prior to the measures.
Lille
Likewise, Lille has had an environmental zone since 1 January 2025. This environmental zone is active 24/7 and prohibits vehicles without an environmental sticker.
Status of LEZs in Major Cities (March 2026)
| Metropolis | Crit'Air Restriction | Fines | Position on Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris / Greater Paris | Crit'Air 3, 4, 5 (intra-A86) | Yes (partially educational until 31-12-2026) | Retention confirmed |
| Lyon | Crit'Air 3, 4, 5 | Yes | Retention confirmed |
| Grenoble | Crit'Air 3, 4, 5 | Yes | Retention confirmed |
| Rennes Métropole (43 municipalities) | Without Crit'Air | Yes | Under consideration |
| Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux | Crit'Air 4 and 5 (variable) | Yes | Under consideration |
| Nantes, Strasbourg, Lille | Insertion schedule | Yes Lille, Nantes and no Strasbourg (educational phase) | Local decrees under preparation |
What Does This Mean for Travelers Through France?
- Even if the national environmental sticker is abolished, cities can retain their own ZFE's.
- Major urban areas such as Paris, Lyon, and Grenoble have already confirmed that their LEZ will remain enforced.
- Local differences: some cities have imposed fines, while others are still in an educational phase or preparing decrees.
Conclusion: Anyone driving to France in 2026 would be wise to check the Crit'Air regulations per environmental zone. Even if the national abolition goes ahead, the sticker will remain mandatory in many metropolises, so always check our environmental zone page before you travel.
