Why drivers should keep their Crit’Air stickers - even if low-emission zones end
MPs voted to end the ZFEs but this does not necessarily mean the end of the coloured windscreen stickers
ZFE restrictions continue to apply in urban areas such as Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg and Marseille despite the recent vote by MPs
GERARD BOTTINO / Shutterstock
Drivers of older vehicles may welcome the recent vote by MPs to abolish France’s low-emission zones, however they can still be fined for not displaying a Crit’Air sticker where required.
Although parliament voted to end the ZFE (zones à faibles émissions) scheme on May 28, the measure has not yet been enacted.
The full bill must first pass through the Senate, where more than 600 amendments await discussion. It must then withstand possible scrutiny by France’s highest constitutional authority, the Conseil constitutionnel.
Until this process is complete and the final law is put into effect, ZFEs remain in force. This means local restrictions continue to apply in urban areas such as Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg and Marseille.
Crit’Air remains the legal reference
However, the Crit’Air sticker system, introduced in 2016, predates the current ZFE framework.
It classifies vehicles based on emissions levels according to fuel type, age and engine technology.
This classification remains the legal basis for implementing traffic restrictions, including temporary bans during pollution peaks or heatwaves.
Whether or not ZFEs are eventually withdrawn, local authorities retain the power to impose circulation limits based on environmental conditions.
In such cases, the presence or absence of a valid Crit’Air sticker is often the determining factor.
Risk of fines still applies
Motorists who remove their Crit’Air sticker, or fail to display one in areas where it is required, remain liable for a fine of €68.
In some circumstances, the penalty may rise to €135. By comparison, the cost of obtaining a Crit’Air sticker is €3.81.
Final outcome remains uncertain
While the recent vote marks a political shift, the legislative process is far from complete.
The ZFE repeal could still be delayed, significantly amended, or rejected outright on legal grounds.
This happened to several amendments in France’s 2024 immigration law, including one that would have introduced an automatic visa right for second-home owners.
In the meantime, drivers are advised to retain and display their Crit’Air sticker wherever required.
