The City Council has amended the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) bylaw in Palma to allow the temporary registration of foreign-registered vehicles that meet the required environmental standards. The measure is already in force following the publication of the decree today, Tuesday, 24 March 2026, in the Official Gazette of the Balearic Islands (BOIB).

The main new development is that non-resident foreign-registered vehicles will be able to apply for a temporary permit to enter Palma’s Low Emission Zone. This permit will be valid for 30 calendar days from the requested date of entry and must be processed with a minimum of five calendar days’ notice. Without prior authorisation, access to the LEZ will not be allowed.

How to apply for authorisation to enter the LEZ

Registration must be completed using the form available on the Mobipalma website. To complete the process, applicants will need to provide documents such as a passport or NIE, driving licence, vehicle registration document, proof of ownership and proof of arrival on the island by passenger ticket. In cases of renting or leasing, a copy of the contract in the name of the holder must also be provided.

Foreign vehicles LEZ

This amendment follows the clarification issued by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) regarding the equivalence of environmental badges between Spain and certain European countries, specifically Germany, Austria, France and Denmark. On the basis of this criterion, the council has adapted the regulations governing Palma’s Low Emission Zone, since when the technical project and the current bylaw were drafted, the interpretation was different.

What changes in Palma’s Low Emission Zone

The City Council nevertheless reminds drivers that this equivalence does not automatically grant the right to drive in all cities, so each driver must check the local regulations and, where necessary, apply for the relevant authorisation.

The new regulation also maintains the existing conditions for foreign-registered vehicles belonging to residents registered within the LEZ and for owners of businesses, garages or properties located داخل the zone, who may continue to apply for permits of up to six months provided they meet the environmental requirements.

Another new feature is the extension of accompaniment or pick-up permits, which will no longer be limited to children under 12 and will now cover all minors.

Restrictions timetable until 2030

As for the timetable of restrictions, the penalty system for Palma’s Low Emission Zone will continue to be applied progressively. Until December 2026, all vehicles with B, C, ECO and 0 badges, as well as motorcycles, will be allowed to circulate. From 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2029, only vehicles with C, ECO and 0 badges will be permitted. From 1 January 2030, only vehicles with ECO and 0 badges will be authorised, in addition to those holding specific authorisation.