Which cars pay
- Petrol cars pay unless they meet Euro 4, which most registered from 2006 do.
- Diesel cars pay unless they meet Euro 6, which most registered from late 2015 do.
- Electric cars and motorcycles do not pay.
Our ULEZ and clean air zone check gives an instant estimate from the fuel type and registration year. Confirm with the official GOV.UK vehicle checker before you travel.
Where the zone is
The zone covers a small central area of Bristol, including much of the city centre and parts of the inner ring road. Signs mark the boundary, and the council publishes a detailed map. Vehicles officially diverted into the zone are not charged.
How to pay
Pay online on the GOV.UK "Drive in a clean air zone" service or by phone. You can pay up to 6 days before or 6 days after your journey. One payment covers the whole day, however many times you enter.
Penalties
If you do not pay in time, a penalty charge notice is sent to the registered keeper. Clean air zone penalties in England are £120, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days, plus the daily charge.
Exemptions and support
Bristol City Council has offered exemptions and financial support for some people on low incomes, people with hospital appointments, blue badge holders and those who work in the zone. Check the council's Clean Air for Bristol website for what is open now.
Other zones
Birmingham charges £8 a day and London's ULEZ £12.50. See every UK zone in our clean air zones guide.
Sources
- Clean Air for Bristol: Charges
- GOV.UK: Drive in a clean air zone
- GOV.UK: Driving in a clean air zone
Checked against official sources on 15 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm anything important on GOV.UK. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.