ZFE in Reims: Everything you need to know about the traffic-free zone (2023)
The Low Emission Mobility Zone (ZFEm) in Grand Reims restricts access to heavily polluted areas, including the city center and Taittinger road, for vehicles based on their CRIT'AIR sticker category.
Author: DXR / Daniel Vorndran, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. source
The Grand Reimsarea is taking significant steps to tackle air pollution and protect its residents. The implementation of the Low Emission Mobility Zone (ZFEm) is a crucial part of this endeavor. Designed to reduce emissions of pollutants from road traffic, ZFEm is gradually limiting access to certain areas in and around Reims, focusing on the most heavily polluted zones. In this blog post, we'll delve into how the CRIT'AIR sticker system works, what vehicles are affected, and how you can navigate the ZFEm effectively, along with a closer look at the specific areas where these regulations apply.
Understanding CRIT'AIR Stickers in Reims
To enter and drive within the ZFEm, you need to be aware of the CRIT'AIR sticker system. These air certificates indicate your vehicle's level of pollution. The higher the certificate number, the more pollutants your vehicle emits. To order your CRIT'AIR sticker, follow these simple steps:
- Find out about the category of your vehicle.
- Order your CRIT'AIR sticker directly on the official website
- For vehicles to be shipped to France, the cost of the sticker is €3.11, with additional postage costs, totaling €3.72.
Scope and Progressivity of ZFEm
The ZFEm in Grand Reims encompasses sectors that have been identified by ATMO as the most heavily polluted, exceeding regulatory requirements for nitrogen oxide emissions. The system gradually restricts access to the city center of Reims and the Taittinger road (A344) for the most emitting vehicles. An educational period precedes each new restriction.
Analyses conducted by ATMO Grand Est revealed that air quality in Reims has fallen well below regulatory values. As a result, a 5-year moratorium has been established for vehicles classified as CRIT'AIR 3, meaning there will be no restrictions for CRIT'AIR 3 stickers before January 2029.
Applicable Areas of ZFEm in Reims
The ZFEm restrictions in Grand Reims apply to specific areas within the city. The sectors identified by ATMO as heavily polluted and exceeding regulatory requirements for nitrogen oxide emissions are the primary focus. This includes the city center of Reims and the Taittinger road (A344).
While the ZFEm's boundaries are clearly defined by the polluted zones, it's essential to stay informed about the specific areas where these restrictions are in effect. The educational period and the evolving nature of the ZFEm mean that regulations may expand or change over time.
Vehicles Affected by Traffic Restrictions
The traffic restrictions and parking measures apply to a wide range of vehicles, including light vehicles, light commercial vehicles, heavy goods vehicles, buses, and coaches. Here's the timeline for the restrictions:
- January 1, 2022: Ban on CRIT'AIR 5 vehicles.
- January 1, 2023: Ban on CRIT'AIR 5 and CRIT'AIR 4 vehicles.
Vehicles Not Affected
It's essential to note that these restrictions do not apply to two-wheelers, motorized tricycles, quadricycles, motorcycles, and mopeds. Agricultural tractors are also exempt from these measures.
The implementation of the ZFEm in Grand Reims is part of a concerted effort to improve air quality and reduce pollution in the city. By gradually phasing out highly polluting vehicles and focusing on the most heavily polluted areas, the city is moving toward a greener and more sustainable future.
If you plan to drive in this area, make sure to obtain the appropriate CRIT'AIR sticker, stay informed about the specific areas where restrictions apply, and be mindful of the evolving regulations. Your compliance will not only contribute to a healthier environment but also ensure you can navigate the city with ease.
