Spain accelerates restrictions on 'B' sticker vehicles in city centres

Several Spanish cities are tightening access for older vehicles to reduce urban pollution

Spain is intensifying efforts to improve air quality by implementing stricter regulations on vehicles with 'B' environmental stickers, particularly in urban areas. These measures are part of a broader strategy to reduce emissions and promote sustainable mobility.

Understanding the 'B' sticker

• Petrol passenger cars and light vans registered from January 2000 (meeting the Euro 3 emissions standard).
• Diesel passenger cars and light vans registered from January 2006 (meeting Euro 4 and 5 emissions standards).
• Vehicles with more than eight seats and heavy vehicles, both petrol and diesel, registered since 2005.

City-specific restrictions

• Madrid: Since 2024, 'B' sticker vehicles can circulate within the city's Low Emission Zone (ZBE). However, in the ZBE de Especial Protección Distrito Centro, they are only permitted if parked in public car parks. Similar rules apply to 'C' sticker vehicles. 
• Bilbao: From 15 June 2025, 'B' sticker vehicles will be banned during ZBE hours. Registered residents have a grace period until the end of 2029.
• Barcelona and Girona: In Catalonia, restrictions will tighten further. Vehicles with a 'B' sticker will be prohibited in Low Emission Zones (ZBE) starting in 2026, with a complete ban by 2028. 
• Palma de Mallorca: Plans to ban 'B' sticker cars from 2027 and 'C' sticker vehicles from 2030. 
• Málaga: Restrictions are set to be enforced from 2025, with further measures expected in 2027. 
• San Sebastián: Expected to restrict 'B' sticker cars from 2028.

National legislation and future outlook