in 2025, will your car be able to drive in Montpellier?

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From this Wednesday January 1, 2025a new step in the fight against pollution will be reached in the metropolis of Montpellier. The Low Emission Zone (ZFE) will tighten, banning the oldest vehicles in eleven municipalities. This decision aims to reduce emissions of fine particles and nitrogen oxides, pollutants dangerous to human health.

Since 2023, ZFE restrictions already apply to Castelnau-le-Lez, Clapiers, Grabels, Jacou, Juvignac, Lattes, Le Crès, Montpellier, Pérols, Saint-Jean-de-Védas and Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone. In 2025only vehicles equipped with stickers Crit’Air 2 or better will be able to circulate in these areas. In 2026, the measure will be extended to the 31 municipalities of the metropolis. Although the bans already exist, no checks have yet been carried out. This will change with the installation of radar cameras and specific traffic signs. Therefore, drivers of non-compliant vehicles will be exposed to a fixed fine of 68 euros. For heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches, the penalty could reach 135 euros.

Exempt vehicles and privileges

Despite these restrictions, certain exemptions will remain. Crit'Air 3 vehicles parked for disabled people or belonging to emergency services, such as ambulances or the police, will remain authorized. For residents who drive less than 8,000 kilometers per year, an exemption request can be submitted. This will require an insurance certificate or technical inspection certificates proving low mileage.

For others, the 52-day Pass will offer an alternative solution. This device will allow driving a maximum of 52 days per year in restricted areas. The dates must be informed in advance on the city website. In the event of an emergency, drivers will be able to contest their fine by providing proof, such as a medical certificate.

A framework to encourage new behaviors

Dominique Tilakdirector of Atmo Occitanie, supports this initiative. “All these measures encourage changes in behavior. They are pushing to use more environmentally friendly means of transport, such as cycling or public transport,” she explains. She also reminds us that these restrictions are beneficial for public health: “We are all sensitive people at some point in our lives. Improving air quality is essential to protect everyone's health. »

While the results of these policies are encouraging, it remains difficult to measure the exact effect of EPZs on pollution. The figures show a constant improvement in air quality in Montpellier, but this is the result of a set of measures. “We cannot attribute this decline solely to the EPZ. It’s a whole, including urban developments and new modes of transport,” emphasizes Dominique Tilak. The question remains open: will the EPZ be sufficient to meet environmental ambitions or will even stricter measures need to be considered?

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