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Low Emission Zones in Italy

6 Low Emission Zones

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Overview

Italy operates 6 emission-based restricted traffic zones across its major cities, including Milan, Rome, Florence, Modena, and Livorno. While Italy is well known for its extensive ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) system that limits general traffic in historic city centres, a growing number of zones now specifically restrict vehicles based on emission standards.

Milan leads with two distinct zones: Area B, a large low emission zone covering most of the city that restricts older diesel and petrol vehicles, and Area C, a smaller congestion charge zone in the historic centre with even stricter emission requirements plus a €5–€7.50 daily entry fee. Other cities enforce emission-based restrictions through their existing ZTL frameworks.

Regulations

Milan’s Area B is active Monday to Friday, 7:30–19:30 (excluding public holidays). It bans diesel vehicles up to Euro 4 and petrol vehicles rated Euro 0 (pre-Euro). The zone covers 72% of Milan’s territory and is enforced by 188 electronic gates with ANPR cameras.

Milan’s Area C operates Monday to Friday, 7:30–19:30, and applies a congestion charge on top of emission restrictions. Diesel vehicles up to Euro 4 and petrol vehicles up to Euro 1 are banned entirely, while compliant vehicles pay a daily entry fee.

In Rome, Florence, and other cities, emission-based restrictions are incorporated into the existing ZTL systems. Requirements vary by municipality and are typically enforced during specific hours. Fines for violations range from €80 to €160, with additional charges for repeat offenders. Foreign-registered vehicles are subject to the same rules.

Who must comply

Emission-based restrictions in Italy apply to all motor vehicles entering the designated zones during active hours. Requirements vary by city and zone.

Zones — 6

Scudo Verde Florence
Scudo Verde Florence
LEZ Livorno
LEZ Livorno
Area B Milan
Area B Milan
Area C Milan
Area C Milan
Zona Verde Modena
Zona Verde Modena
Fascia Verde Rome
Fascia Verde Rome

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between ZTL and Area B in Milan?
ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) is a general traffic restriction zone found in most Italian cities that limits access regardless of emissions. Milan's Area B is specifically an emission-based zone that restricts vehicles based on their Euro standard. A vehicle may be compliant for Area B but still not allowed in a ZTL without a permit.
How much is the fine for entering Milan Area B with a non-compliant vehicle?
The fine for entering Milan Area B with a banned vehicle ranges from €80 to €160. Each entry through a different gate can result in a separate fine. Foreign-registered vehicles will receive fines by post to their registered address.
Do I need to pay to enter Milan Area C?
Yes. Area C is a congestion charge zone. Even compliant vehicles must pay €5 per day (or €7.50 for more polluting but still allowed vehicles). Electric and hybrid vehicles are exempt from the charge. Payment can be made online, at ATM machines, or at authorised newsagents.
Are foreign-registered vehicles affected by Italian emission zones?
Yes. All vehicles, regardless of registration country, must comply with the emission standards when entering restricted zones. Foreign drivers can check their vehicle's Euro standard in their registration documents. Fines are sent internationally and may be collected through EU cross-border enforcement agreements.
When are Milan's emission zones active?
Both Area B and Area C are active Monday to Friday, from 7:30 to 19:30. They are not active on Saturdays, Sundays, or Italian public holidays. Outside these hours, all vehicles may enter freely.

Check your vehicle compliance

Use our API to instantly verify if your vehicle can enter Milan Area B, Area C, and all other Italian emission zones.

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