Spain accelerates restrictions on 'B' sticker vehicles in city centres
Several Spanish cities are tightening access for older vehicles to reduce urban pollution
Spain is intensifying efforts to improve air quality by implementing stricter regulations on vehicles with 'B' environmental stickers, particularly in urban areas. These measures are part of a broader strategy to reduce emissions and promote sustainable mobility.Understanding the 'B' sticker
The 'B' environmental sticker, issued by Spain's Directorate-General of Traffic (DGT), identifies vehicles based on their emission levels. Specifically, it applies to:
- Petrol passenger cars and light vans registered from January 2000 (meeting the Euro 3 emissions standard).
- Diesel passenger cars and light vans registered from January 2006 (meeting Euro 4 and 5 emissions standards).
- Vehicles with more than eight seats and heavy vehicles, both petrol and diesel, registered since 2005.
City-specific restrictions
Several Spanish cities have introduced or are planning to introduce restrictions on 'B' sticker vehicles:
- Madrid: Since 2024, 'B' sticker vehicles can circulate within the city's Low Emission Zone (ZBE). However, in the ZBE de Especial Protección Distrito Centro, they are only permitted if parked in public car parks. Similar rules apply to 'C' sticker vehicles.
- Bilbao: From 15 June 2025, 'B' sticker vehicles will be banned during ZBE hours. Registered residents have a grace period until the end of 2029.
- Barcelona and Girona: In Catalonia, restrictions will tighten further. Vehicles with a 'B' sticker will be prohibited in Low Emission Zones (ZBE) starting in 2026, with a complete ban by 2028.
- Palma de Mallorca: Plans to ban 'B' sticker cars from 2027 and 'C' sticker vehicles from 2030.
- Málaga: Restrictions are set to be enforced from 2025, with further measures expected in 2027.
- San Sebastián: Expected to restrict 'B' sticker cars from 2028.
National legislation and future outlook
The Spanish Climate Change Act mandated that municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants implement Low Emission Zones by 2023, affecting approximately 70% of Spanish cities. This law requires 158 cities to establish zones that restrict older vehicles or all vehicles, aiming to lower emissions.
As these regulations roll out, it's crucial for vehicle owners to stay informed about local restrictions to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Image: Vladimir Vinogradov/Unsplash
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