Low-emission zoneBrussels
Traffic rules
Brussels
1. Low-emission zone
A low-emission zone, or LEZ, is a defined area where access by more polluting vehicles is restricted in order to reduce traffic-related air pollution. Vehicles that do not satisfy the required emission criteria may be prohibited from entering or may require a temporary permit, exemption or day pass.
Access rules commonly depend on factors such as the vehicle category, fuel type and Euro emission standard. Low-emission-zone requirements vary between countries and cities, so drivers should check the applicable rules before entering the zone.
Where are the low-emission zones in Belgium?
Belgium currently has low-emission zones in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent. Antwerp and Ghent are the two LEZs in Flanders, while Brussels has a separate regional system.
Are the LEZ rules the same in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent?
No. The zones have their own access criteria, boundaries, permits and administrative procedures. Drivers should therefore check the rules for the specific zone they intend to enter.
What determines whether a vehicle may enter a Belgian LEZ?
Access generally depends on the vehicle category, fuel type and Euro emission standard. Additional conditions or exemptions may apply to particular vehicles.
What are the current Brussels LEZ requirements in 2026?
Since 1 January 2026, the normal Brussels access criteria require diesel cars, vans, buses and lorries to meet at least Euro 6. Petrol, CNG and LPG vehicles concerned by the rules generally require at least Euro 3.
Are Euro 5 diesel vehicles still allowed in the Brussels LEZ?
No, not under the normal access criteria. Euro 5 diesel vehicles became excluded from normal Brussels LEZ access on 1 January 2026, although an exemption or day pass may be available in certain circumstances.
Are Euro 5 diesel vehicles still allowed in Antwerp and Ghent in 2026?
Yes. The planned Flemish tightening was withdrawn, so Euro 5 diesel vehicles continue to have normal access to the Antwerp and Ghent LEZs in 2026.
Are Euro 2 petrol vehicles still allowed in Antwerp and Ghent?
Yes. Petrol vehicles meeting Euro 2 continue to have normal access under the current Flemish LEZ criteria.
Where does the Brussels LEZ apply?
The Brussels LEZ covers the entire Brussels-Capital Region and its 19 municipalities. The R0 Ring itself and certain roads providing access to designated transit car parks are excluded.
Where does the Ghent LEZ apply?
The Ghent LEZ covers the inner city within the ring road. Entry and exit points are indicated by LEZ zone signs.
Where does the Antwerp LEZ apply?
The Antwerp LEZ covers the city centre and Linkeroever. Drivers should use the official vehicle checker before entering because the precise boundaries and access conditions matter.
Do foreign vehicles have to register for Belgian LEZs?
Often yes. Foreign vehicles entering Brussels must be registered according to the Brussels LEZ procedure, and foreign vehicles entering the Flemish LEZ system must also satisfy the applicable registration requirements.
Can one Flemish registration cover both Antwerp and Ghent?
Yes, for vehicles that require free registration under the Flemish system. Registration through the applicable Flemish LEZ procedure can provide access to both Flemish low-emission zones when the vehicle satisfies the relevant conditions.
How are Belgian LEZs enforced?
Belgian LEZs use automatic number-plate recognition cameras to check vehicles against registration and access databases. Entering without satisfying the applicable conditions can result in a fine.
Can you buy a day pass for a Belgian LEZ?
Yes, in certain zones. Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent provide mechanisms allowing otherwise non-compliant vehicles to enter temporarily under specified conditions, although prices and annual limits differ between the zones.
How many Brussels LEZ day passes can you buy?
The Brussels system currently allows up to 24 day passes per calendar year and per registration plate.
How many Ghent LEZ day passes can you use?
The Ghent system currently allows an LEZ day pass for a vehicle up to 12 times per year.
Are electric vehicles allowed in Belgian low-emission zones?
Yes. Fully electric vehicles satisfy the emission-based access requirements. Administrative registration can still be required for certain foreign-registered vehicles.
Does fitting a particulate filter automatically change a vehicle's Euro standard?
No. The official Euro standard is based on the vehicle's approved emissions classification. Retrofitting equipment does not automatically convert it into a higher Euro standard for LEZ purposes.
Where can you find your vehicle's Euro standard?
For Belgian vehicles, the Euro standard is normally shown in field V.9 of the registration certificate. If it is missing, other official vehicle information may be used to determine the applicable standard.
