Birmingham: Clean Air Zone (Class D)
Birmingham is one of only two UK Clean Air Zones that charge private cars — most charge commercial vehicles only. If your car doesn't meet the emissions standard, it costs £8 for each day you drive inside the ring road.
Clean Air Zone · LAST VERIFIED 2026-09-12When it's active
In operation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The charge is a daily one rather than per entry, so driving in several times in one day costs the same as driving in once.
Which vehicles are affected
Non-compliant vehicles are charged, not banned — you can always drive in if you pay. Compliance broadly means a Euro 6 diesel or Euro 4 petrol engine; cleaner vehicles, fully electric ones included, are not charged.
Registering a foreign or rental vehicle
There is nothing to register in advance. Check the vehicle on the government's Clean Air Zone vehicle checker, and pay online or by phone if it is chargeable. You can pay up to 6 days before travelling and must pay by 23:59 on the sixth day after driving in — miss that window and a Penalty Charge Notice follows.
Fees & fines
£8 a day for cars, taxis and vans; £50 a day for coaches and HGVs. Figures are indicative and can change — confirm on the official page before travelling.
How it's enforced
Camera-enforced with automatic plate recognition. There is no barrier and no way to pay at the roadside.
Exemptions
Vehicles meeting the emissions standard are not charged at all. Various local exemptions and grants exist for residents and businesses, but they generally don't apply to visitors.
Where the zone is
Covers the city centre inside the A4540 Middleway ring road.