France has taken firm steps towards reducing pollution in its cities, and one of the most notable measures is the implementation of Low Emission Zones (ZFE), known in French as Zones à Faibles Émissions. These areas restrict access to polluting vehicles with the aim of improving air quality and promoting more sustainable mobility. If you plan to travel to France by car, it is essential that you understand how these zones work, what requirements you must meet and what environmental label you need.
What are Low Emission Zones (ZFEs)?
ZFEs are urban areas where vehicle traffic is restricted according to their level of emissions. This system is based on the Crit’Air environmental sticker, which classifies vehicles according to their environmental impact. France introduced this scheme in 2016, and since then, several cities have adopted these zones to combat pollution, especially in the most populated cities.
From 2025, all French cities with more than 150,000 inhabitants are obliged to establish a low-emission zone, which significantly extends the scope of these restrictions. Cities such as Paris, Lyon, Grenoble, Toulouse and Strasbourg already have active ZFEs, and others such as Marseille, Nice and Montpellier are progressively joining them.
Main French cities with ZFEs
These are some of the main French cities with active ZFEs and their particular characteristics:
- Paris and Greater Paris: the French capital was a pioneer in implementing an ZFE, which today covers not only Paris, but also the municipalities within the perimeter of the A86 motorway (Greater Paris). Since 1 January 2025, vehicles with a Crit’Air 3 or higher label (more polluting) have been banned from driving on weekdays, although there are exceptions such as weekends or limited day passes for occasional drivers.
- Lyon: France’s third largest city has an ZFE covering the centre and part of its metropolitan area. From 2025, Crit’Air 3 vehicles are also restricted and there are green lanes reserved for electric or shared vehicles during peak hours.
- Grenoble: known for its environmental approach, Grenoble has had an ZFE in place for years. In addition, it was the first French city to introduce an eco lane in 2020. Here, the restrictions are progressively tightening, excluding vehicles with Crit’Air 4 and 5.
- Toulouse: in the southwest of the country, Toulouse implemented its ZFE in 2023, and in 2024 it extended the restricted areas. Older vehicles (Crit’Air 5 or no label) are no longer allowed to drive in the city centre.
- Strasbourg: the Eurometropolis of Strasbourg has a temporary low emission zone (ZPA) that is activated during pollution peaks, but is also moving towards permanent restrictions for the most polluting vehicles.
Access requirements: the Crit’Air sticker
In order to drive in an ZFE all vehicles (including foreign vehicles) must display the Crit’Air sticker on their windscreen. This sticker classifies vehicles into six categories according to their level of emissions:
- Green (E): Electric or hydrogen vehicles (zero emissions).
- 1 (Purple): Euro 5 and 6 petrol vehicles (from 2011) and some hybrids.
- 2 (Yellow): Euro 4 petrol (2006-2010) and Euro 5/6 diesel (since 2011).
- 3 (Orange): Euro 2/3 petrol (1997-2005) and Euro 4 diesel (2006-2010).
- 4 (Brown): Euro 3 diesel (2001-2005).
- 5 (Grey): Euro 2 diesel (1997-2000).
- No label: Vehicles prior to 1997 or Euro 1 diesel.
Each city decides which categories of vehicles are permitted. For example, in Paris, vehicles without a sticker and Crit’Air 4 and 5 are already banned, and from 2025 Crit’Air 3 will be added on weekdays. It is important to check the specific rules for the city you plan to visit, as some low emission zones are permanent (ZFE), while others are activated only during episodes of high pollution (ZPA).
How to get the Crit’Air sticker
Applying for the sticker is simple and can be done online through the official website of the Ministry. You will need:
- Your vehicle registration document, with details such as registration and Euro standard.
- A bank card to pay with. The price of the Crit’Air sticker is €3.81 for French vehicles and €4.91 for vehicles registered in other countries. This amount includes shipping costs.
The delivery time for the French environmental label by post is 5 to 10 days, but you will receive a provisional certificate by email within 24 hours, valid while you wait for the sticker to arrive. Beware of unofficial sites that charge more for the procedure!
Fines and exceptions
Driving without a Crit’Air sticker or with a category not allowed in a low-emission zone can result in a fine of 68€ for cars and up to 135€ for lorries or buses. Some cities allow for exceptions, such as limited daily passes or permits for residents and people with reduced mobility.
Tips for travellers
Low emission zones are a growing reality in France and understanding them will save you hassle and fines. With your Crit’Air sticker on your windscreen you’ll be ready to enjoy the wonders of Paris, Lyon or Toulouse without worry. Remember:
- Plan your route: check the active ZFEs and their schedules on the official website or on apps like Green-Zones.
- Apply for the sticker in advance: even if you have the provisional certificate, it is better to have the physical label before travelling.
- Consider alternatives: many cities promote public transport, bicycles or electric vehicles, which have free access to the ZFE.