Heatwave in France: Driving bans active

In contrast to other European countries, it is more common in France for high ozone and pollutant levels to exceed the permitted limits and thus trigger alarm. French cities often react to this with temporary traffic measures, such as driving bans for the most polluting vehicle classes.  

Now the time has come again this summer. Since the middle of last week, advance warnings have been repeatedly issued for high ozone levels in various areas of the country. While the ozone initially made itself felt in the southwest, the elevated ozone levels have likewise shifted to the southeast since the weekend. The city of Marseille is particularly affected by the heat wave and the associated ozone levels. Temporary driving bans have already been imposed here in response to the lousy air quality.  

Affected by the driving bans in the metropolis are all light vehicles of the classes L, M1, M2 and N1 when displaying a French sticker 4 or 5. Similarly, the bans for heavy vehicles over 3.5t. Classes N2, N3, M3 with stickers 3, 4 and 5 are not permitted. Furthermore, if one of the above-mentioned vehicles does not have an environmental sticker at all, entry into the affected zone is also prohibited in this case.  

It is not yet possible to say with certainty how the situation will develop. However, as high temperatures are still scheduled for this week, it is possible that more cities and departments will declare driving bans. Especially in the southeast, for example in Lyon, Avignon and St. Etienne, the risk is high.  

You can see in which departments and cities there are still advance warnings and where there are further driving bans in our Green-Zones app. This way, you are always informed on a daily basis whether you are allowed to enter a temporary environmental zone with your vehicle.