London low emission zone (LEZ)

What is the London low emission zone?

The Greater London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) focuses on reducing particulate matter emitted from diesel-engine vehicles (including hgvs, buses and coaches) throughout the 32 London boroughs and the Corporation of London

The LEZ operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and has various compliance stages dependent on vehicle weight and Euro standard. If you don’t comply with the compliance standards then you need to pay a daily access fee or face penalty charges. Cars are not included in the LEZ.

What area does the LEZ cover?

All public roads are included within the LEZ, in addition to the following motorways:

  • M1 south of London Gateway Services
  • M4 east of Junction 3
  • M4 spur to Heathrow

View a map of the London low emission zone

What vehicles does the LEZ apply to?

Hgvs, buses and coaches are currently required to meet the Euro 4 standard for particulate matter (PM) emissions. Larger vans and minibuses were included in the LEZ from 3 January 2012 and now must meet the Euro 3 standard for PM emissions to drive within Greater London.

Vans and minibuses first registered as new with the DVLA on or after 1 January 2002 are assumed to meet the Euro 3 standard. Vehicles not meeting the emissions standard can be made to do so by modifying them. Alternatively, operators of vehicles that do not meet the standard would need to pay a daily charge of £100 to drive within the zone.

Vehicles that came into scope in 2008 were required to meet the Euro 4 standard for PM emissions from 3 January 2012. Operators of vehicles that do not meet this standard will need to pay a daily charge of £200 to drive within the zone.

How can I get more information?

For help understanding the LEZ, view our London emission zone compliance guide (members only). You can also find advice on the Transport for London website. Alternatively, use the downloadable documents and links below for more information.

Sign in to view FTA member-only documents