Brussels Low-Emission Zone Rules Reinstated After Court Ruling
Brussels’ stricter low-emission zone (LEZ) rules are back in effect immediately following a ruling by the Belgian constitutional court, . The court overturned a decision by the Brussels region to postpone the implementation of the stricter rules for two years, citing concerns for public health. However, authorities have indicated that fines will not be issued immediately.
The court determined that delaying the LEZ extension would lead to “a significant deterioration in the level of protection of the right to health and the right to a healthy environment, and that deterioration is not reasonably justified.” This decision reverses a move made last year by the Brussels Regional Parliament to postpone stricter LEZ rules that were originally scheduled to take effect on .
The postponement had allowed vehicles meeting Euro 5 diesel standards and Euro 2 petrol standards to continue operating within the Brussels LEZ for an additional two years. This decision followed a vote supported by Francophone liberals, centrists, socialists, Flemish liberals, the far-right Vlaams Belang, and the party led by Fouad Ahidar. The Greens and the Défi party voted against the postponement, while Flemish nationalists and Christian democrats abstained.
The legal challenge was brought by four associations and a number of private individuals, including a child suffering from chronic asthma and allergies. The court specifically noted the potential for irreparable harm to this plaintiff, stating that any postponement would significantly restrict the child’s right to health and a healthy environment.
Environment minister Alain Maron (Ecolo) stated that the court is “allowing a little time” and has requested that the LEZ taskforce convene as soon as possible to address the situation.
The LEZ has been in place in Brussels since , prohibiting certain vehicles from driving within the Brussels Capital Region. The zone applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the entire region. The rules are part of a broader effort to tackle air pollution, which remains a significant public health issue in Belgium, with road traffic identified as a major contributor.
While the stricter rules are now technically in force, the administration has not yet announced when fines will be issued. The court has requested time to allow for the LEZ taskforce to reconvene and determine next steps.
The decision comes amid ongoing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of LEZ policies. Concerns have been raised by some groups about the financial burden placed on vehicle owners, while others emphasize the importance of protecting public health and improving air quality. Recent data indicates a steady improvement in Brussels air quality, but advocates for stricter regulations argue that more aggressive measures are needed to address the ongoing problem of pollution.
The Constitutional Court is expected to issue a permanent ruling on the annulment of the postponement within three months.
