Low Emission Zones (LEZ) exemptions

Updated: 15 April 2024

According to the LEZ laws, we may grant local temporary (‘time-limited’) exemptions for a vehicle or type of vehicle for up to one year. We will only do this on a case-by-case basis, in exceptional circumstances and considering the impacts we identify in relation to the LEZ objectives. This is to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles, to protect public health from air pollution and address climate change.

We've decided to take this approach as there are

• national exemptions for identified groups including blue badge holders
• national funding support has been made available for eligible
  • small business
  • sole traders
  • households on low incomes
• national funding support made available to help people access more sustainable transport
• two-year grace period for all before any penalty charge notices (fines) are issued.

We do recognise that there may be exceptional circumstances where a local ‘time-limited’ exemption may be permitted.

A Local Exemption Advisory Panel (LEZ-LEAP) will meet four times a year (once per quarter) to review applications. The panel

• will meet once per quarter to review evidence received
• will not review evidence relating to the same vehicle more than once, for example, one application per vehicle maximum
• will only review evidence brought to it via the web form, unless otherwise stated
• will not accept appeals on previous decisions it has made. The Panel's decision is final.

Personal vehicles may not apply for LEZ local exemptions. Taxis and private hire vehicles are not covered by LEZ local exemptions. Read our taxi policy.

Complete the Edinburgh low emission zone local exemption request form

Upcoming cut off dates for applications and decision by the panel:

• 1 June 2024 - for decision no later than 1 September 2024
• 1 September 2024 - for decision no later than 1 December 2024
• 1 December 2024 - for decision no later than 1 February 2025
• 1 February 2025 - for decision no later than 1 April 2025
• 1 June 2025 - for decision no later than 1 September 2025
• 1 September 2025 - for decision no later than 1 December 2025