Expansion of the Low-Emission Zone in Lille: Environmental Sticker Mandatory for Border Crossings at Halluin and Wervicq-Sud
As of January 1, 2025, all urban areas in France with more than 150,000 inhabitants are required to establish a low-emission zone (LEZ or ZFE, “Zone à Faibles Émissions”). Lille has implemented this measure, which also includes several border municipalities within its LEZ. This means that drivers crossing the border at Halluin, Wervicq-Sud, or Neuville-en-Ferrain must have a Crit’Air sticker on their vehicle.
Other French cities are also subject to this new regulation, currently covering 42 metropolitan areas across the country. Furthermore, even if a major city is not part of a permanent LEZ, local authorities can enforce the use of the sticker in cases of high air pollution.
Mandatory Crit’Air Sticker
The Crit’Air sticker is an environmental label indicating how polluting a vehicle is. There are six categories, each with its own color code, ranging from green (least polluting) to gray (most polluting). The sticker must be placed on the lower right-hand corner of the windshield and is valid for the lifetime of the vehicle. Failure to have a valid sticker can result in a fine of €68, payable within 45 days.
Applying for the Sticker
The Crit’Air sticker can be requested via the official French government website at a cost of €3.11, plus €1.80 for shipping. Applicants must provide a photo or scan of the vehicle's registration certificate. The website provides clear instructions for foreign vehicle registration.
Importance for Belgian Drivers
For Belgian motorists who regularly cross the border into France, it is essential to be aware of this new regulation. Driving without a valid environmental sticker can result in a fine. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to apply for a Crit’Air sticker in advance and affix it correctly to the vehicle.
More Information
For more details and to apply for a Crit’Air sticker, visit the official French government website: www.certificat-air.gouv.fr.