Driving to Italy from France this summer? Check how to avoid ‘automatic’ fines in cities

Drivers heading to Italy for their summer holidays are being warned over automatic fines they can receive for driving in restricted areas, which can be triggered multiple times, even in one city.

Despite recent rules making speed cameras in the country more clearly signed and practical for drivers, other laws can catch drivers at unawares, including stringent checks on a vehicle’s tyres. 

One such rule is a total ban on driving through certain areas of major cities. 

Known as Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL, or limited traffic zones), they are in place to protect historic areas (usually in city centres), reduce pollution (including the effect of polluting particles on historic sites), improve traffic flow in the cities and increase the quality of life for residents.

Drivers in larger cities such as Paris may already be familiar with this method, as some cities in France begin to implement these zones. 

However, they are far more widespread in Italy, with at least 20 already in place in the largest cities of the country and several smaller ZTLs in other popular tourist areas.

Fines for entering the zones without authorisation start at around €100 and can be issued for each time you enter a restricted area – meaning they can quickly add up. 

Many drivers who have received the fines say they were unaware of the rules, and as vehicles breaking rules are captured by radars and cameras as opposed to officers handing out physical tickets, any breach can lead to fines automatically being issued.

France and Italy share information on traffic offences as part of a European project, meaning fines for a French-registered car will be sent to the address given on a vehicle’s registration document.

How to avoid ZTL fines in Italy 

If driving in Italian cities, check for signs denoting a ZTL. 

Similar to their French counterparts, it is a red circle with a white interior (as seen on the main photo of this article) and usually contains information about the exact limitations on an adjacent road sign. 

All ZTL boundaries are clearly marked by these signs.

Certain drivers are authorised to enter the zones, including residents, delivery drivers, workers, public transportation etc.

Exact rules on entry, the hours the rules are in place etc vary between zones, so check in advance with local authorities those where you will be. 

In certain Italian ZTLs, it is possible to register your vehicle’s number plate to temporarily drive within the zone if you are staying within the area.

This is usually free of charge, ask your hotel in advance if it is possible. 

If staying in an Airbnb or other private accommodation, ask your host if it is possible for them to do this for you. 

Alternatively, park your vehicle outside of the zone and then spend the rest of the time on foot. Parking / park and ride facilities on the periphery of these zones are usually easy to find. 

Hire cars do not come with an automatic authorisation to drive in ZTLs.

If a hire company receives a ZTL fine, they will forward your details to the authorities and may charge you an additional penalty for doing so.