Low Emission Zone Toulouse

Does Toulouse have a low emission zone? Yes, Are you planning to drive a car, camper, or motorcycle to Toulouse? Be aware that as of March 1, 2022, environmental restrictions have been implemented in and around Toulouse due to the introduction of low emission zones. An emissions sticker for France is therefore mandatory! Travel prepared and order your French vignette in advance of your trip.

Do I need an emissions sticker for the low emission zone in Toulouse?

Yes, an emissions sticker has been mandatory since March 2022 to drive and park within the low emission zone in Toulouse. Vehicles are classified based on the French emissions sticker, also known as the Crit’Air vignette. This vignette indicates how polluting a vehicle is. Without the correct sticker on your vehicle, you risk a fine.

Where does the low emission zone in Toulouse begin?

The low emission zone (ZFE) in Toulouse covers most of the city and includes parts of Tournefeuille and Colomiers. The zone is bounded by the ring road to the east, south, and north, and by the Arc-en-Ciel and the RD901/A621 to the west. These ring roads (A620, A62, A621, A624, A61, A64, and A68) themselves are not part of the zone and are freely accessible. However, part of the western ring road and La route D'Auch are included in the zone.

Map of the Low Emission Zone Toulouse

See below for the map of the low emission zone ZFE Toulouse.

Where can I park (P+R) outside the low emission zone in Toulouse?

There are several Park & Ride (P+R) locations available outside the low emission zone, such as Balma-Gramont and Ramonville. Here you can park your vehicle and switch to public transport. Within the ZFE, P+R locations such as Basso Cambo, Borderouge, and Argoulets are accessible to all users, regardless of vehicle type. The access roads to these locations are freely accessible (see also the green roads on the map above).

Which cars are allowed in the low emission zone in Toulouse?

The allowed vehicles depend on the Crit’Air classification. Since January 2023, vehicles with Crit’Air 4, 5, and unclassified vehicles are no longer permitted in the low emission zone. Initially, vehicles with a classification 3 sticker were also to be banned from January 1, 2024. However, on October 12, 2023, it was decided to suspend the Crit’Air 3 ban. This suspension came because air quality in Toulouse was found to be better than expected after several measurements. Therefore, Crit’Air 3 vehicles may continue to drive in the ZFE at least until December 31, 2025. Vehicles with a Crit’Air 2 and 3 sticker, including diesel vehicles, may still drive in the zone.

If you have a sticker that technically does not allow you into the low emission zone, you can obtain occasional access by applying for a day pass. This can be requested for up to 52 days a year.

Curious about which sticker your vehicle qualifies for? Check it here.

Where can I buy an emissions sticker for the low emission zone in Toulouse?

The emissions sticker for France can be easily applied for online through the application service of vignetdirect.com. Within 48 hours, you will receive a valid proof of application, and the process only takes a few minutes.

How much does an emissions sticker for the low emission zone in Toulouse cost?

The cost of the French emissions sticker is £18.95 (including administration and shipping costs). Payment can be made via Ideal or Paypal, and the service is fast and straightforward, taking away all the hassles of applying.

What happens if you don't have an emissions sticker in the low emission zone in Toulouse?

Driving or parking without a valid emissions sticker in the ZFE of Toulouse can lead to a fine. The fine is £68 for light vehicles and light commercial vehicles, and £135 for trucks. Checks can be carried out by enforcement officers or eventually through automatic number plate recognition.

Is Toulouse a low emission zone?

Yes, Toulouse has a low emission zone (ZFE) where access is restricted based on emissions stickers. This means that the most polluting vehicles are prohibited from accessing certain parts of the city.

Why does Toulouse have a low emission zone?

The introduction of the low emission zone in Toulouse is a legal requirement under the French Mobility Orientation Law of 2019. This measure was established to improve air quality and protect public health, as the city regularly exceeds the allowed pollution levels.

On October 12, 2023, it was decided to suspend the Crit’Air 3 ban. Therefore, Crit’Air 3 vehicles may continue to drive in the ZFE at least until December 31, 2025.

My vehicle does not qualify for a (correct) sticker in Toulouse. What can I do?

Certain vehicles and drivers are eligible for exemptions:

• Holders of a disabled parking card: These have permanent exemption without required action.
• Vehicles with a valid street parking subscription before the introduction of the ZFE: Exemption until the expiration date of the subscription in 2023.
• Collection vehicles: Exemption for 3 years after the introduction of the restrictions, provided they are listed as “Collection vehicle” on the registration certificate.
• Campers and vans with VASP certification: Exemption for 3 years if “VASP” is on the registration certificate.
• Food producers and street vendors: Exemption for 3 years upon showing a permit for market delivery or an MSA certificate.
• Mobile traders: Exemption for 3 years upon showing a non-sedentary trading card and registration certificate.

For a complete list of exceptions, please refer to the official regulations.

If your vehicle does not qualify for an emissions sticker and you do not fall under the exemption, it means it is considered too polluting and does not have access to the ZFE. However, you can use the 52-day pass, which allows you access to the zone for up to 52 days per year, regardless of the Crit’Air classification. Alternatively, you can park outside the low emission zone and switch to public transport via P+R locations as mentioned above.

Want to apply for an emissions sticker? Do so in advance, as during busy summer periods, you may have to wait longer for your sticker to arrive in the UK or Belgium.