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Low Emission Zones in Portugal

2 Low Emission Zones

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Overview

Portugal operates Low Emission Zones called Zonas de Emissões Reduzidas (ZER) in its capital Lisbon. The system consists of two concentric zones with different emissions requirements, designed to improve air quality in the city center.

Zone 1 covers the inner city and enforces stricter standards, requiring Euro 2 or above. Zone 2 covers a wider area with a minimum of Euro 1. Enforcement is planned through an automatic camera-based system, and fines range from €120 to €600 for non-compliant vehicles.

Regulations

Lisbon's ZER system is divided into two zones. Zone 1 (inner zone) requires vehicles to meet at least Euro 2 emissions standards. Zone 2 (outer zone) requires at least Euro 1. Both zones apply to all motor vehicles entering the restricted areas.

The fine for entering a ZER without meeting the required emissions standard ranges from €120 to €600, depending on the severity of the violation and vehicle type. Enforcement via automatic number plate recognition cameras is being implemented.

Electric vehicles and other zero-emission vehicles are fully exempt and may enter both zones without restriction.

Who must comply

The ZER restrictions apply to all motor vehicles entering the designated zones in Lisbon, including foreign-registered vehicles. Requirements differ by zone:

Zones — 2

ZER Lisboa 1
ZER Lisboa 1
ZER Lisboa 2
ZER Lisboa 2

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between ZER Zone 1 and Zone 2 in Lisbon?
Zone 1 is the inner zone covering central Lisbon with stricter requirements (Euro 2 minimum). Zone 2 is the larger outer zone with less strict requirements (Euro 1 minimum). If you are driving into the city center, your vehicle must meet Zone 1 standards.
How are Lisbon's emission zones enforced?
Portugal is implementing an automatic camera-based enforcement system using number plate recognition. Until fully operational, enforcement may involve spot checks by authorities. Fines range from €120 to €600.
Do I need a sticker or vignette for Lisbon's ZER?
No. Portugal's ZER system does not use stickers or vignettes. Compliance is determined by your vehicle's registration data and Euro emissions standard, verified through the license plate.
Are rental cars compliant with the ZER?
Most rental cars from major companies will meet at least Euro 2 standards and can enter both zones. However, it is advisable to confirm the Euro standard of your rental vehicle before entering the zones.
Can foreign-registered vehicles enter Lisbon's ZER?
Yes, but they must meet the same Euro standard requirements as Portuguese vehicles. Foreign vehicles that do not meet the minimum standard risk receiving a fine of €120 to €600.

Check your vehicle compliance

Use our API to instantly verify if your vehicle can enter Lisbon's ZER zones.

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