Low Emission Zones in Belgium: What you need to know
The Flemish Government decided on 19 September, 2025, to temporarily postpone the planned tightening of the low emission zones (LEZ). Concretely, this means that the access rules currently in place in Antwerp and Ghent will remain valid for the coming years. In Brussels, however, the acceleration will proceed. And in Wallonia? The whole plan was scrapped. In this blog, you will discover everything you need to know about the Belgian LEZ zones.
What is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?
A low emission zone is an area where the most polluting vehicles are not allowed to drive. The goal is simple: to improve air quality in cities and reduce the emission of harmful substances. Vehicle owners must take into account the fuel type and Euro standard. The higher the Euro standard, the cleaner the vehicle. If your vehicle does not meet the standard, there are solutions such as a LEZ day pass or a temporary permit.
Ghent and Antwerp: tightening postponed
In Ghent, the LEZ applies to the area within the city ring R40. Antwerp also has an LEZ in the city center and on the Left Bank. In both cities, the rules apply to all vehicles: from passenger cars to vans, trucks, and even camper vans, 7 days a week. Initially, the cities wanted to allow only diesel vehicles with Euro 6 and petrol vehicles with Euro 3 free access starting January 1, 2026. However, due to the Flemish Government's decision, this will not happen. This means that vehicles such as Euro 5 diesel and Euro 2 petrol vehicles will still be allowed in 2026.
Brussels: stricter than planned
In Brussels, almost the entire Brussels-Capital Region is part of the LEZ. The city wanted to postpone the tightening, but the Constitutional Court blocked this. This means that diesel vehicles Euro 5 and petrol vehicles Euro 2 or lower are no longer allowed in the LEZ. There is a transition period: from January 1, 2026, offenders will first receive a warning letter, and the first fine of €350 will only follow after 3 months. Those who temporarily need to use a non-permitted vehicle can buy a day pass or leave the vehicle at a Park & Ride on the outskirts of the city. Brussels residents are also encouraged to choose an environmentally friendly vehicle through the Bruxell’Air premium.
Wallonia: No LEZ for now
In Wallonia, there were plans for a large regional LEZ, but these were completely scrapped by the Walloon Parliament. Municipalities can still voluntarily establish a local LEZ, but so far this is hardly happening. The idea of a regional LEZ for the entire Walloon Region seems off the table for now, with the focus now on a few large urban centers.
Check your vehicle online
Want to know if your vehicle is allowed in the LEZ? Use the official online tools of the cities:
• Ghent – LEZ check • Antwerp – LEZ check • Brussels – LEZ check
By checking your vehicle online, you avoid a fine and know exactly what options you have if your vehicle does not meet the standards.
