Clean Air Zones, ULEZ and your fuel type: what petrol and diesel drivers need to know
Which UK cities charge older petrol and diesel vehicles, the emission standards that matter, and how to check a vehicle before you drive.
Several UK cities charge or restrict older, more polluting vehicles. Whether you pay depends on the vehicle’s emission standard, not just on petrol versus diesel.
Typical standards
- Petrol cars meeting Euro 4 (roughly 2006 onward) usually avoid charges.
- Diesel cars generally need Euro 6 (September 2015 onward).
Where
London’s ULEZ covers all boroughs; Birmingham, Bristol, Bath, Portsmouth, Sheffield and Newcastle/Gateshead have had Clean Air Zones of varying class; Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee have Scottish low emission zones that fine non-compliant vehicles. Schemes change, so check the official source before travelling.
Check your vehicle with the government’s tool, and compare fuel prices in the town you are going to via the towns page.
Frequently asked questions
Does a diesel car always pay in a Clean Air Zone?
No. Euro 6 diesels generally comply. It depends on the zone class and the vehicle’s emission standard.