Since February 1, 2017, Antwerp introduced the first low-emission zone (LEZ) in Flanders. In the meantime, Brussels has followed this example and as of the beginning of 2020, Ghent will also have its own LEZ.
By introducing these low-emission zones, the objective is to improve the air quality in and around the cities. Everyone knows that the oldest cars running on diesel are no longer allowed to access the LEZ cities. As the rules will be tightened in the beginning of 2020, we will briefly list the new regulations of the different cities to clarify if you can still enter these LEZs. It is important to know the Euro standard of your car, which you will find on your registration certificate next to the code V9.
Who can still drive in Brussels?
Diesel cars in particular are being scrutinized, as they release more air-polluting and unhealthy emissions.
Since the beginning of 2019, the rules for gasoline cars have also been tightened and cars without Euro standard or with Euro 1 standard can no longer enter the LEZ.
Can I drive my car in Ghent?
You can enter Ghent with a Diesel that has the Euro 5 standard without worrying until 2024. As of 2020 you will only be able to enter with a Euro 4 standard against payment. You can opt for a weekly, monthly, quarterly or annual pass.
The standards will be tightened up again in 2025 and you will need at least a Euro 6 standard.
If your car does not have the necessary EURO standard,you can still enter the LEZ for a maximum of 8 days a year. For this, you have to buy a day pass at a rate of 35 euros.
A gasoline car with a Euro Standard 2 can enter Ghent until 2024. From 2025, a Euro 3 standard is the minimum requirement. Usefull to keep in mind if you are going to buy a new car in the future.
Can I still enter the city of Antwerp?
The diesel conditions to be allowed to enter Antwerp's Low Emission Zone until 2024 do not differ from the conditions for Ghent. From 2025, you can still enter the city against payment.
The admission conditions for petrol cars are for now the same in LEZ of Antwerp and Ghent (date of writing: September 2019).
In Antwerp too, people are already looking ahead and the standards will be tightened from 2025.
Conclusion
The regulations will become more strict. Would you like to continue entering in the LEZ's than take a look at the new cars of Cardoen. With a new vehicle you can be sure you will be able to enter the LEZ for many years to come.