LEZ in Ghent: Everything you need to know about the traffic-free zone (2023)
Explore Ghent responsibly with the city's Low Emission Zone (LEZ), marked in pink on the map, promoting cleaner air and sustainable urban living within the city center. Check your vehicle's eligibility, navigate the LEZ area and streets, and utilize alternatives like Park & Ride or temporary permits for a seamless, eco-friendly adventure in this historical Belgian gem.
Author: Heraclitus2000, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. source
Ghent, a city known for its historic charm and forward-thinking initiatives, is taking a bold step toward sustainability with the implementation of its Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Designed to improve air quality, particularly in the city center within the ring road, the LEZ imposes specific emission standards for vehicles entering this area. For an enriching and environmentally responsible visit to Ghent, it's essential to understand the intricacies of the LEZ regulations. This comprehensive guide aims to provide detailed insights and assist you in navigating the LEZ effectively.
Why a Low Emission Zone in Ghent?
The introduction of Ghent's Low Emission Zone is a proactive response to the global challenge of urban air pollution. By restricting the entry of high-emission vehicles, the city aims to create a healthier and more sustainable living environment. As a visitor, aligning with these efforts contributes to the collective goal of fostering a greener future.
Check Your Vehicle Eligibility
Before embarking on your journey to Ghent, use the online tool to assess whether your vehicle meets the LEZ entry requirements. If your vehicle falls outside the permissible emissions standards, promptly answer all online questions and apply for the necessary access, ensuring a seamless entry into the city.
Entry Requirements (2020 - 2024)
- Euro 6/VI: Admitted
- Euro 5/V: Admitted
- Euro 4/IV: Admitted after payment
- Euro 3/III: Admitted with LEZ day pass
- Euro 2/II: Admitted with LEZ day pass
- Euro 1/I: Admitted with LEZ day pass
- Older Vehicles: Admitted with LEZ day pass
Petrol/LPG/CNG and LNG:
- Euro 6/VI: Admitted
- Euro 5/V: Admitted
- Euro 4/IV: Admitted after payment
- Euro 3/III: Admitted with LEZ day pass
- Euro 2/II: Admitted with LEZ day pass
- Euro 1/I: Admitted with LEZ day pass
Older Vehicles: Admitted with LEZ day pass*
Possibility to buy a LEZ day pass. Maximum 8 passes a year. For trucks over 3.5 tons, the term EEV (enhanced environmentally friendly vehicle) is sometimes used. EEV is equivalent to Euronorm 5/V. * Your CNG, LPG, or LNG vehicle must be converted from a petrol engine.
The access requirements will become more stringent in 2025, 2027, and 2028. Please take this into account when buying a car.
Excluded Streets from the LEZ in Ghent:
The R40 (Ghent ring road), the N430 (Nieuwewandeling-Blaisantvest), the access road to the Gent-Zuid car park of the R40 and E17 (B401 and Zuidparklaan), the Gent-Zuid car park exit in the direction of the R40 and E17, Jules de Bruyckerdreef, access to the car park AZ Sint-Lucas: Terhagen, edge car parks that can be driven on and off without having to enter the LEZ are not included in the low emission zone. Enter your destination in the search bar on the official website to see on this map whether it falls within the LEZ (the pink zone).
If your vehicle doesn't meet access requirements, consider alternatives:
- Park in a designated Park & Ride outside the LEZ.
- Utilize the Gent Zuid underground car park (city center) if space is available, entering via Zuidparklaan and exiting via Gustaaf Callierlaan.
- If Gent Zuid car park is full, use P+R The Loop/Expo or P+R Watersportbaan.
