The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is once again in the spotlight, as new changes are expected to come into effect from August 2025. If you live in Greater London or regularly travel within or around it, these updates could directly impact your daily routine—and your wallet.
This article provides everything you need to know about the updated ULEZ rules, including which areas are affected, what vehicles must comply, potential fines, and how you can prepare ahead of time.
What Is ULEZ?
ULEZ stands for Ultra Low Emission Zone, a pollution-reduction initiative by Transport for London (TfL) aimed at improving air quality. It charges drivers of vehicles that don’t meet strict emissions standards a daily fee for entering designated areas. Initially launched in central London, the zone has expanded several times and now covers all London boroughs.
ULEZ applies 24/7, except for Christmas Day, and works in addition to the Congestion Charge. Its primary goal is to discourage the use of older, more polluting vehicles.
Why Are New ULEZ Rules Being Introduced?
The upcoming ULEZ expansion in August 2025 is part of a broader climate and public health policy. With rising concerns over respiratory illnesses, carbon emissions, and the UK’s net-zero target by 2050, TfL and the Mayor’s Office have argued that a more stringent system is necessary.
Authorities believe the changes will push more drivers to adopt electric or hybrid vehicles and reduce harmful pollutants across urban centres, not just within London.
Which Areas Will Be Affected?
While the ULEZ already spans all 32 London boroughs, the August 2025 changes will extend its influence beyond London borders. Areas currently under consideration include parts of the Home Counties, such as:
- Slough
- Dartford
- Watford
- St Albans
- Epsom
- Woking
Although the exact boundaries are still under consultation, many suburban towns within the commuter belt may fall under the new ULEZ coverage.
What Vehicles Will Be Impacted?
ULEZ rules are based on the emissions standard your vehicle meets, not just its age. Vehicles affected include:
- Petrol cars registered before 2006 (Euro 4 standard)
- Diesel cars registered before September 2015 (Euro 6 standard)
- Motorcycles that don’t meet Euro 3 standards
- Vans, minibuses, and HGVs with non-compliant engines
Electric vehicles are completely exempt from ULEZ charges, while some hybrids may still be liable depending on their engine type.
You can check your vehicle’s compliance status using the TfL ULEZ Checker Tool.
How Much Is the Daily Charge?
The daily charge for entering the ULEZ with a non-compliant vehicle remains:
- £12.50 for cars, motorcycles, and vans (up to 3.5 tonnes)
- £100 for lorries, buses, and heavier vehicles
These charges are in addition to the Congestion Charge, meaning a non-compliant vehicle in central London during the day may have to pay over £24 per day.
Will There Be Any Exemptions?
Some exemptions and grace periods will continue or be extended with the 2025 rules. These include:
- Blue Badge holders
- Taxis licensed by TfL
- London-registered minibuses used by community groups
- Historic vehicles over 40 years old
Additionally, certain residents in newly included areas might receive a temporary grace period before charges begin, though this hasn’t been confirmed yet.
How Can Drivers Prepare?
If you drive a non-compliant vehicle and live or work in an area likely to be affected, you have several options:
- Switch to a compliant vehicle – whether it’s petrol Euro 4, diesel Euro 6, or fully electric.
- Apply for scrappage schemes – TfL may extend its current scheme offering financial support to low-income drivers and small businesses.
- Consider public transport or car sharing – TfL services are ULEZ-exempt and increasingly reliable.
Starting preparation early can help avoid last-minute financial pressure once the rules go live.
What About Residents Outside London?
This is where the controversy intensifies. Many residents in outer boroughs and neighbouring counties feel the expansion is unjustified, arguing that public transport is inadequate, and car dependency is higher in those regions.
There have been petitions, protests, and political backlash, particularly in constituencies bordering London. Critics also point out the financial burden for low-income families who can’t afford to upgrade vehicles.
However, TfL maintains that air pollution doesn’t stop at London’s borders and that regional inclusion is necessary for broader environmental impact.
Will ANPR Cameras Be Installed in New Areas?
Yes, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras are key to enforcing ULEZ. New camera installations have already started in some outer boroughs, with more expected to be rolled out in the summer of 2025.
These cameras automatically detect whether a vehicle entering the zone is compliant and trigger daily charge notices where applicable.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
If you drive a non-compliant vehicle into the ULEZ and fail to pay the daily charge, you’ll face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN):
- £180 for cars and vans (reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days)
- Up to £1,000 for heavier vehicles
Multiple infractions can quickly become financially overwhelming, making compliance or avoidance essential.
Is This the Last ULEZ Expansion?
Most likely not. While August 2025 marks a significant step, there are long-term discussions within the UK government and devolved administrations about rolling out Clean Air Zones (CAZs) or similar ULEZ-style systems to other major cities like:
- Birmingham (already has a CAZ)
- Manchester (pending)
- Bristol
- Sheffield
The goal is to standardise clean air enforcement across the UK, although implementation and public support vary from region to region.
How Will This Affect Local Businesses?
Businesses operating delivery fleets or service vehicles in the newly impacted zones may face higher operational costs if their vehicles don’t meet standards. However, many may qualify for grants or subsidies to upgrade fleets or switch to electric vans.
Local councils may also introduce additional incentives to support smaller businesses during the transition.
What Are the Public Opinions?
The public remains divided. Some praise the ULEZ policy for reducing nitrogen dioxide levels and promoting environmental responsibility. Others see it as a “cash grab” from TfL and a punishment for working-class drivers.
Polling suggests younger and urban residents are more supportive, while older drivers and those in suburban areas are more critical.
Final Thoughts
The new ULEZ rules coming in August 2025 will reshape how millions of people across and around London move. While the goal is cleaner air and a greener future, the short-term challenges—especially for those with limited alternatives—are real.
If your area is likely to be affected, now is the time to check your vehicle, explore exemptions, and plan accordingly. This could save you hundreds—if not thousands—of pounds annually.