More Information About Environmental Zones in France
What types of environmental zones are there in France?
The French government distinguishes between 4 different types of environmental zones:
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ZFE
Low Emission Zone zone à faibles émissions
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ZPA
Temporary Environmental Zone zone de protection de l'air
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ZPAD
Temporary Departmental Environmental Zone zone de protection de l'air departamentale
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ZCR
Permanent Environmental Zone Zone à Circulation Restreinte
The Low Emission Zone (ZFE) This is the most common zone. Local authorities in France have the power to set the conditions for low emission zones. This includes the size of the zone, which vehicle categories may be restricted (determined by environmental stickers), the duration of the measures, possible expansions, and any exemptions.
In the temporary environmental zone (ZPA) a valid environmental sticker is only required during prolonged air pollution events. The specific area is predetermined and cannot be changed.
In the temporary departmental environmental zone (ZPAD) the size is not yet fixed, as it depends on local air quality. In cases of persistent air pollution, immediate measures can be taken by the departments, such as establishing an environmental zone and reducing speed limits. It's important to monitor the air quality in the ZPAD, which can be found on the Atmo France website. The site provides air quality updates for yesterday, today, tomorrow, and the day after. The greener the color, the better the air quality. Any measures taken are always displayed on the matrix boards along and/or above the roads. You can also find this information at http://www.DEPARTMENTNAME.gouv.fr.
A permanent environmental zone (ZCR) is in effect all year round but may be limited to weekdays from 8 AM to 8 PM. Outside of these hours, there is no environmental zone, and vehicles without a sticker are allowed, unless a temporary environmental zone has been established. Paris and Grenoble previously had a permanent environmental zone (ZCR), but the zone in Paris has been replaced with a low emission zone (ZFE) since July 1, 2019. Historically, the ZCR was a first step towards the current, more comprehensive and restrictive low emission zones (ZFE). Today, the term ZCR is still used, but it exists alongside the ZFE, which is gradually being implemented in major French cities.
Whether environmental zones will still exist in 2027 is currently uncertain. In early April 2026, Parliament and the Senate approved a simplification bill to abolish environmental zones across France. The proposal also includes prohibiting the establishment of local ZFEs. Whether this law will be enacted depends on the assessment by the constitutional council. On our blog page and social media, you can find the latest updates regarding the abolition of French environmental zones.
How is an environmental zone monitored in France?
French environmental zones are currently monitored by local and national police. Officers check both moving and parked vehicles. In some French cities, there is even a special traffic service dedicated to monitoring environmental zones.
In various cities, such as Paris, they use cameras to check the emission class of vehicles. With automatic number plate recognition, they can identify vehicles that violate regulations and check if they qualify for any exemptions. However, they can only do this for French vehicles, as they do not have data for foreign vehicles.
Fine for not having a valid vignette
in accordance with Article R.411-19-1 of the French traffic lawHow can I identify an environmental zone in France?
A French environmental zone is marked by white signage featuring a red circle with zone on it. Below, there is often a supplementary sign displaying the words Zone à Faibles Émissions on it.
The sign with a red circle can be found at the start (entrée) and at the end of the zone, there’s a sign featuring a grey crossed-out circle. The signage indicates which vehicles are permitted and the times when the rules apply.
Why Do French Cities Have Environmental Zones?
French cities implement environmental zones to improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions from traffic. In cities like Paris, numerous cars contribute to fine particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, which are detrimental to health. Environmental zones restrict or ban polluting vehicles, leading to cleaner air and reducing health issues such as asthma and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, these measures help cities comply with European environmental regulations and promote cleaner transport options, like electric vehicles and public transport.
