Zaragoza changes its Low Emission Zone: restrictions will only apply if there is pollution

The modification of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) will be the main change resulting from the agreement between the PP and Vox parties to approve the 2026 budget in Zaragoza . The new model will limit access restrictions to the city center and the penalty system to episodes in which official pollution thresholds are exceeded. Thus, the ordinance will no longer be applied permanently and will only be activated in specific situations , a format that, according to the municipal government, is already in place in other Spanish cities and complies with national regulations.

Mayor Natalia Chueca has argued that this formula offers “legal certainty” and allows for continued transport subsidies linked to compliance with environmental legislation, while reducing restrictions she considered excessive. In her view, the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) as originally planned was an imposition that did not reflect the reality of Zaragoza , a city that does not routinely exceed pollution limits.

From Vox, their municipal spokesperson, Eva Torres, celebrated the agreement, which guarantees that citizens will not be penalized for driving in the city center except in exceptional cases . The party argued that the change introduces “common sense” and avoids unnecessary harm to residents and businesses. The amendment to the ordinance will begin processing immediately after the final approval of the budget, with the aim of implementing the new system as soon as possible.