Benidorm’s New Low Emission Zone (ZBE): What It Means for Residents, Tourists, and Property and business Owners

What is the ZBE and why is it being implemented in Benidorm?

As of July 1, 2025, Benidorm has officially launched its Low Emission Zone (LEZ), following in the footsteps of other Spanish and European cities. This initiative aims to reduce air pollution by limiting access to the most polluting vehicles in selected areas of the city. For residents, business owners, second-home buyers, and tourists, this marks a new chapter in urban life.

Benidorm’s LEZ is not an isolated measure but part of a wider shift toward cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable cities. The goal is to improve air quality by restricting older and high-emission vehicles while encouraging public transport, electric vehicles, and environmentally friendly mobility.

Who can enter Benidorm's ZBE?

Unlike Madrid or Barcelona, access in Benidorm does not depend on your car's environmental label but on a permit. Cameras read number plates at the entry points of the three zones: Centre, Levante and Poniente. Residents registered in Benidorm who pay the local vehicle tax can drive into the Centre without a permit; Levante and Poniente are for residents with a municipal permit. Second-home owners, garage owners and people who work in the area need a permit from zb.benidorm.org, renewed every year. Visitors can park in the public car parks inside the zone, which register the plate automatically, and each resident can authorise up to 10 visitor vehicles a month. The council has extended until March 2027 the grace period for vehicles without an environmental label.

What benefits will it bring to residents, property owners, and visitors?

Residents will likely enjoy better air quality, quieter streets, and an overall more pleasant city environment. Over time, there may also be incentives for replacing older vehicles with more efficient models.

Tourists and non-resident property owners should not worry—especially with prior planning. Benidorm City Council allows foreign vehicles and temporary visitors to apply for access permits, particularly if they are staying in registered accommodation or private homes within the ZBE.

How will it affect tourism and local business?

While it may raise concerns initially, ZBE implementation has proven successful in other cities. Today’s tourists increasingly value sustainability, accessibility, and clean environments. Businesses stand to benefit from less congestion, a better pedestrian experience, and a more eco-conscious clientele.

How does Benidorm’s ZBE compare to other cities?

Benidorm is taking a gradual and tourism-aware approach. Unlike Madrid or Barcelona, where ZBEs span large urban areas, Benidorm has focused on key central zones with greater flexibility. This makes it more adaptable to the city’s unique tourist profile and allows for a more balanced implementation.

Is it really beneficial for the environment?

Evidence from other cities shows significant reductions in nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and fine particle emissions. When combined with public awareness, strong public transport, and enforcement, Benidorm’s LEZ could deliver real environmental improvements in a relatively short time.

What steps should you take to drive legally within the ZBE?

Spanish vehicle owners can check their DGT environmental badge online. Foreign-registered vehicles must apply for an equivalency permit or temporary access via Benidorm’s municipal website. This is particularly important for international visitors and second-home owners.

How to apply for a permit to enter Benidorm’s ZBE

If your vehicle doesn’t meet the unrestricted access criteria (ECO or ZERO labels), you may apply for a temporary entry permit—especially if you’re staying in tourist accommodation, own a second home, or are making business deliveries.

Steps to apply for a permit:

1. Visit Benidorm’s official website:

   👉 https://www.benidorm.org

2. Navigate to the Mobility / ZBE section.

3. Complete the online form with:

   • Vehicle registration number

   • Owner’s documentation

   • Reason for entry (hotel booking, property ownership, etc.)

   • Dates requested

4. Upload the required documents (PDF or image).

5. Wait for approval via email confirmation.

Note: Vehicles with foreign license plates must also request an environmental label equivalency as part of the application.

Final Thoughts

Benidorm’s Low Emission Zone is not just about regulating traffic; it’s about building a cleaner, smarter, and more liveable city. We see this as an opportunity to increase residential property value, enhance lifestyle quality, and position Benidorm as a sustainable, forward-thinking destination.