The UK Clean Air Zones Expansion 2025 is now fully operational across multiple cities, targeting high-pollution areas and reducing vehicle emissions to protect public health. This expansion reflects the UK government’s strong commitment to reducing air pollution and improving air quality in urban spaces.
With new low emission zones being added and more cities introducing vehicle access restrictions, motorists are now required to meet updated emissions standards or pay daily charges. The changes directly impact private car owners, taxi drivers, van operators, and logistics companies across the UK.
What Are Clean Air Zones and How Do They Work?
Clean Air Zones (CAZ) are designated areas where targeted actions are taken to improve air quality by discouraging the use of high-emission vehicles. Under the UK Clean Air Zones Expansion 2025, several major UK cities have implemented or extended their CAZs to reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter (PM) emissions.
Clean Air Zones typically include:
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Charges for non-compliant vehicles
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Access restrictions for high-polluting vehicles
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Encouragement for using electric and low-emission vehicles
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Signage and ANPR cameras to monitor compliance
These vehicle access restrictions vary by city but usually apply to diesel vehicles that don’t meet Euro 6 standards or petrol vehicles below Euro 4.
Cities Included in the Clean Air Zones Expansion
The UK Clean Air Zones Expansion 2025 includes more cities across England, Wales, and Scotland than ever before. Many local authorities have joined the movement to create healthier living environments.
Here’s a list of key cities now enforcing Clean Air Zones:
| City | Type of Zone | Daily Charge (Non-Compliant Cars) |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham | Class D | £8 |
| London (ULEZ) | Ultra Low | £12.50 |
| Manchester | Class C | £10 (vans, taxis) |
| Bristol | Class D | £9 |
| Sheffield | Class C | £10 (HGVs, taxis) |
| Newcastle | Class C | £12.50 (vans, buses) |
| Glasgow | LEZ | £60 (doubling daily) |
| Oxford | ZEZ | £2–£10 (based on emissions) |
These zones are equipped with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras and issue charges or penalties to non-compliant drivers.
Who Has to Pay and How to Stay Compliant
Not all vehicles are subject to charges, but if your car or van does not meet emissions standards, you may be required to pay a daily fee when entering a Clean Air Zone.
Here’s who needs to pay:
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Older diesel cars (pre-Euro 6)
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Older petrol cars (pre-Euro 4)
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HGVs, vans, taxis, and buses not meeting emissions standards
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Non-UK registered vehicles may also be charged
To avoid charges:
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Use compliant or electric vehicles
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Check your registration using government CAZ checker tools
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Upgrade your vehicle or retrofit emission reduction devices
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Plan alternative routes outside restricted zones
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Use public transport or park-and-ride services
These low emission zones are designed to promote sustainable transport and better air quality, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Penalties and Enforcement Rules in 2025
Under the UK Clean Air Zones Expansion 2025, if a non-compliant vehicle enters a Clean Air Zone and fails to pay the charge, a penalty notice is issued.
Key penalty information:
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Penalty charges range from £60 to £180, depending on the city
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Penalty may double if not paid within 28 days
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ANPR cameras monitor zone entry 24/7
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Payment is expected by midnight on the day of travel
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Appeals can be made if the penalty is issued in error
Frequent offenders may face further enforcement actions. It is therefore vital for vehicle owners to understand their obligations before entering these regulated zones.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the UK Clean Air Zones Expansion 2025?
The expansion aims to reduce urban air pollution by restricting access to older, high-emission vehicles in major UK cities.
Which vehicles are exempt from Clean Air Zone charges?
Fully electric vehicles, compliant Euro 6 diesel and Euro 4 petrol vehicles, and some disabled-access vehicles are exempt.
How do I check if my vehicle is compliant?
Use the official Clean Air Zone vehicle checker online by entering your registration number to confirm compliance status.
What happens if I don’t pay the CAZ charge?
Failure to pay results in a penalty notice ranging from £60 to £180 depending on the city and response time.
Are Clean Air Zones operational on weekends and holidays?
Yes, most zones operate 24/7, including weekends and public holidays. Charges apply every day the zone is active.
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