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It is now prohibited to drive through the center of Paris

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The Editor

© Hugon Dominguez - Le Bonbon

Established in early November in Central Paris, the Low Traffic Zone (ZTL) is now in enforcement mode. Starting from April 1st, motorists and drivers of motorized two-wheelers without an authorized reason will face fines.

After pedagogy comes verbalization. Since November 5th, cars and vans are no longer allowed to circulate in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th districts of the capital. This is a key measure of Anne Hidalgo's program aimed at easing traffic, which is entering a new phase: starting this Tuesday, April 1st, offenders will face a fine of €135. So now, you need to come up with a solid excuse to move freely in this Traffic Limited Zone (ZTL).


A Clearly Defined Perimeter

The area affected by the ZTL stretches over a wide perimeter, clearly marked by ground markings and red and white signs. It is bordered to the west by the Place de la Concorde and Rue Royale, to the north by the Boulevards de la Madeleine, des Capucines, de Montmartre, and de Bonne Nouvelle, to the east by the Place de la République and Place de la Bastille, and to the south by the quays between the Henri IV Bridge and the Tuileries. Some areas remain accessible by car, particularly the Grands Boulevards to the north, the Îles de la Cité and Saint-Louis, as well as the upper and lower quays of the Right Bank in the west-east direction.

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© City of Paris


Who can still drive in ?

In this large area, only certain vehicles will be allowed to circulate : those belonging to emergency services and rescue, health professionals, local residents and sector workers, public transport and rideshare services, as well as people with reduced mobility and delivery services.

The City of Paris has also specified several situations where access to the ZTL remains possible, such as for a medical appointment, shopping, visiting friends, going to the movies, carrying out professional interventions or even parking in a parking lot.


A system inspired by major European cities

Adopted in several metropolitan areas like Madrid, Milan, or Rome, this measure aims to drastically reduce the number of vehicles passing through central Paris daily without stopping – between 350,000 and 550,000, according to the municipality. The goal is clear: to calm traffic and reorganize mobility by promoting public transport and active mobility. However, there still needs to be clarification on the control methods and the list of documents required to travel within the ZTL, with an official decree still pending.