It has been looming over Londoners for a while now and the new Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will come into effect in London from 8th April 2019. There’s confusion over what vehicles are going to get charged and how it affects those on two wheels so we’ve put the information together in a helpful guide.
Where is the Ultra Low Emission Zone?
The zone will cover Central London much like the congestion charge zone that is already in place but moving further out.
It will cover Vauxhall, Westminster, Mayfair, Marylebone, Covent Garden, Clerkenwell, City Of London, Southwark and Lambeth. These areas obviously mean that it will affect a lot of commuters but also those who regularly ride across London.
As of 25th October 2021, the zone will enlarge to areas within the North and South Circular. To see the exact coverage of the new Ultra Low Emission Zone have a look at this TfL map.
The ULEZ will be in effect 24 hours a day every day of the year with entry signs posted and advanced information signs will appear on major roads around half a mile from the boundary.
Cameras will be at the boundaries to check registration plates of the vehicles entering and leaving the zone.
What are the new regulations and does it affect me?
Essentially what it boils down to is the Euro 3 regulations for engines. If your motorcycle, scooter or moped was registered on the road before 1st July 2007 then chances are it will be subject to the charges. You can check whether your bike is Euro 3 compliant on the TfL website
For those classic bikers out there you can breathe easy as bikes that are over 40 years old that are exempt from road tax will also be exempt from the ULEZ charge.
There are exemptions to the new zone though. If you’re registered for the residents’ Congestion Charge discount then you will be discounted 100% of the fees for the ULEZ until 24th October 2021 in order to give you enough time to change your bike.
What will it cost me?
This is the important bit. There is a daily charge of £12.50 to ride through the Ultra Low Emission Zone if your bike does not meet Euro 3 standards.
Be aware that those cameras will notice if you ride through the zone and you can be fined up to £130 (reduced to £65 if paid within 14 days) so beware of the zones when planning journeys through Central London.
It’s also worth mentioning that the ULEZ charge is on top of the Congestion Charge so don’t get caught out.
What should I do?
If you think the Ultra Low Emissions Zone is going to affect you then there is only really one option, exchange your older bike for one registered after 2007.
Euro 3 standards became compulsory on all motorcycles registered in the UK after 2007 meaning that you will still be able to find a large number of bikes on the market that’ll be Euro 3.
If you aren’t already registered for the Congestion Charge exemption and live within the ULEZ then I would recommend signing up sooner rather than later.
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