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Oxford Zero Emission Zone
07/05/2024James Harding
Help and Advice
Oxford has taken a significant step towards reducing city air pollution with the implementation of the Oxford Zero Emission Zone.
This initiative - also known as ZEZ - launched as a pilot scheme in February 2022, with a further expansion of the areas affected proposed to come into effect in August 2025.
The scheme targets the heart of the city, with the main aim being to drastically cut down vehicle emissions - a major contributor to the city's air quality issues?.
Oxford Zero Emission Zone Map
The current ZEZ covers key areas in central Oxford including Bonn Square, Queen Street, Cornmarket Street, and more.
It's delineated by specific street signs and monitored by automatic number plate recognition cameras. Which help to enforce the zone's regulations?.
Charges and Payments
Driving a non-compliant vehicle through the Oxford Zero Emission Zone incurs a charge that varies by the emission standards of the vehicle.
The charges range from £2 to £10, depending on the type of vehicle, with rates set to double by August 2025.
Payments can be made online, with options to pay in advance or up to six days after entering the zone.
| Vehicle band | Emissions | Daily charge from 28 February 2022 | Daily charge from August 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zero emission vehicle (ZEV) | 0 g/km CO2 | £0 | £0 |
| Ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) | Emits less than 75 g/km CO2. Any two or three-wheeled vehicle emitting more than 0g/km CO2. | £2 | £4 |
| Low emission vehicle (LEV) | Vehicles with four or more wheels that meet the Euro 4/IV petrol or Euro 6/VI diesel standard. | £4 | £8 |
| All other vehicles | Any vehicle not meeting any of the above standards. | £10 | £20 |
Oxford ZEZ Impact and Goals
The primary goal of the Oxford ZEZ is to enhance air quality by reducing harmful emissions like nitrogen dioxide - which have historically exceeded European limits in the area.
By encouraging the adoption of low and zero-emission vehicles, the initiative supports broader environmental objectives, including climate change mitigation.
Oxford ZEZ Financial Support and Incentives
Financial incentives are available to assist residents and businesses within the ZEZ.
Discounts and exemptions are provided for various vehicle types, including zero-emission vehicles, taxis licensed by the Oxford City Council, and vehicles used by health workers or for community services?.
Vehicle Compliance and Tools
Oxfordshire County Council offers tools to check vehicle compliance online, helping drivers determine if their vehicles meet the required emission standards to qualify for discounts or if they need to pay the charge?.
ZEZ Oxford Further Information
For those looking for more detailed information or wishing to stay updated with the latest developments, the Oxfordshire County Council’s official website provides comprehensive resources, including detailed maps, charge structures, and exemption criteria?.
The Oxford ZEZ represents a proactive approach to urban environmental management, aiming not only to improve air quality but also to set a precedent for sustainable urban planning.
As the city evaluates the outcomes of the pilot zone, further expansions, and enhancements to the ZEZ are anticipated, demonstrating Oxford's commitment to leading by example in the journey towards a zero-emission future.