Traffic in Low Emissions Zone Brussels

New tightening of rules

Since January 1st 2019, it should be noted that a new category of vehicle is banned from circulation in low-emissions zones. Each year, a new category will be banned until the day when all vehicles will be cleaner. The next tightening will therefore take place on January 1st 2020 and so on. However, the authorities allow a transition period of 3 months for you to adapt. If you are part of the new category of prohibited vehicle you have one quarter to find a solution you will therefore only be punishable from April 2019.

LUXEMBOURG VEHICLES CONCERNED BY THE LEZ DE BRUXELLES

The access rules of the LEZ also apply to vehicles registered abroad. These vehicles will have to register with the relevant authorities free of charge if they are to continue to operate legally.

In the low emissions zone of the Brussels Region, the registration of vehicles registered abroad is mandatory. To register you must provide the data related to the vehicle and the owner, i. e.:

• Vehicle registration certificate
• Copy of identity document
• European Certificate of Conformity

Each vehicle entering the low emissions zone of the Brussels Region without first being registered is liable to a fine of 150 € (even if the vehicle complies with the conditions for access to the low emission zone). Any transfer of inaccurate information during registration is punishable by an administrative fine of 25 €.

For companies or other types of organisations with a fleet of more than 20 vehicles, it will be possible to submit a “mass” registration application by contacting Brussels Taxation via info.fiscalite@sprb.brussels

The vehicle registration is valid for 3 years as long as the vehicle information does not change. The registration is processed automatically, so there is no application processing period. Once you have received confirmation of your registration, you can consider your vehicle as registered. (Source lez.brussels)

How are the controls carried out?

Some 200 cameras installed shortly after the entrance signs into the LEZ will make it possible to check the plates of vehicles travelling on it. If you are not registered you will be identifiable as soon as you enter in the area.

End of warnings

The Low Emissions Zones were introduced only in January 2018, however the first sanctions began to fall only from October 2018, the date of the end of the transition. Currently a non-compliant vehicle risks a 350 € fine and as mentioned above an unregistered vehicle 150 €.

Alternatives

If you do not have time to register, you can simply turn to alternative mobility solutions. Whether on foot, by bike or by public transport, the potential existing in Brussels will allow you to forget your car. You can also opt for car-sharing solutions that are growing more and more.