ZTL in Marseille: Everything you need to know about the traffic-free zone (2023)
Explore how Marseille's progressive approach to urban mobility through the Low Emission Zone (ZFE-m) is creating a greener, more sustainable city. Find out about the impact on vehicles, the phased implementation, and the importance of CRIT'AIR stickers. Learn how to navigate the Marseille ZFE-m to enjoy the city while contributing to a cleaner future.
Author: Benh LIEU SONG, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. source
The beautiful port city of Marseille, located in the south of France, has embarked on a journey towards cleaner and more sustainable urban mobility. On September 1, 2022, the city introduced the Marseille Low Emission Zone (ZFE-m), aiming to create a healthier and more eco-conscious environment. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of the Marseille ZFE-m and how it impacts both residents and visitors who want to explore this stunning city.
What is the Low Emission Zone?
The Marseille Low Emission Zone (ZFE-m) is an area designated to gradually limit the circulation of the most polluting vehicles, thus reducing road traffic emissions. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to renew the vehicle fleet, making it more environmentally friendly.
Which Vehicles are Affected in Marseille?
All motorized vehicles are affected by the ZFE-m, whether they are for personal or professional use. This includes cars, two-wheelers, motor tricycles, quadricycles, commercial vehicles, and heavy goods vehicles. To determine the eligibility of your vehicle, the ZFE-m system relies on the national CRIT'AIR sticker system, which classifies vehicles according to their pollutant emissions. Each vehicle falls into a category from 0 to 5, or is unclassified. It is essential to note that the CRIT'AIR sticker is MANDATORY for all vehicles. When ordering your CRIT'AIR sticker, be cautious of fraudulent websites. The official portal for CRIT'AIR stickers displays the Ministry's logo and the website's address is certificat-air.gouv.fr. If these markers are missing, you might be on a fraudulent website.
Know Your Vehicle's Classification
To find out the classification of your vehicle and order a CRIT'AIR sticker, please visit the official website: https://www.certificat-air.gouv.fr/ with your vehicle registration document. Keep in mind that you will need one sticker per vehicle, with an average cost of €3.11 (excluding shipping costs).
Implementation Schedule
The implementation of the Marseille ZFE-m is gradual, with different phases introduced over the years:
From September 1, 2022:
- Vehicles allowed to drive in the zone: CRIT'AIR 0, CRIT'AIR 1, CRIT'AIR 2, CRIT'AIR 3, CRIT'AIR 4
- Vehicles not allowed in the zone: CRIT'AIR 5, Unclassified
From September 1, 2023: Vehicles that can circulate in the area: CRIT'AIR 0, CRIT'AIR 1, CRIT'AIR 2, CRIT'AIR 3 Vehicles that cannot circulate in the area: CRIT'AIR 4, CRIT'AIR 5, Unclassified
From September 1, 2024: Vehicles that can drive in the zone: CRIT'AIR 0, CRIT'AIR 1, CRIT'AIR 2 Vehicles not allowed to drive in the zone: CRIT'AIR 3, CRIT'AIR 4, CRIT'AIR 5, Unclassified * It's important to note that the Marseille Low Emission Zone will be permanent and applicable seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
Air Quality Certificate Classification
Motorhomes and vans are classified as "passenger cars" if they have a maximum permissible weight of less than 3.5 tonnes. This classification is relevant when determining if your vehicle is allowed in the ZFE-m.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with ZFE-m regulations can result in fines. Driving or parking with an unauthorized sticker or without a sticker can lead to a fine of €68 for light vehicles and motorized two-wheelers.
Exploring Marseille while keeping the city's air clean and fresh has never been easier, thanks to the Marseille Low Emission Zone. So, make sure to check your vehicle's CRIT'AIR classification and enjoy your journey while contributing to a greener future.
For more information and updates on the Marseille Low Emission Zone, you can visit the official tourist website.
