Is the Brussels saga surrounding the Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) finally coming to an end? The Brussels government has finally set a schedule for the new LEZ fines system.
If the technical obstacles are resolved, the imposition of LEZ fines should begin on June 7. Euro 5 diesel vehicles and Euro 2 gasoline vehicles, which in theory have been banned from entering the Brussels-Capital Region since the beginning of this year, will be fined starting then and will no longer receive just a warning.
According to BRUZZ, this would affect around 29,000 vehicles. These stricter rules will now also apply to motorcyclists for the first time.
Pay in 10 installments instead of 4
The current system of a one-time 350-euro fine is evolving into an annual subscription, which will be clearer for users. State Secretary for the Environment Ans Persoons (Vooruit) will propose a comprehensive reform of the LEZ system by June 15, featuring an annual subscription of €350, indexed annually, a reduced rate of €200, and a monthly fine of €80 for those driving without a pass. This would then take effect on January 1 of next year.
So, during the transition period between June and the introduction of the new subscription system, the current rule will continue to apply: a fine of €350 per violation, with a maximum of one fine per three months – i.e., a maximum of four per year.
The reform also includes a framework for exemptions. Previously, users could pay in four installments upon request. That option remains in place, but from now on, payments can also be made in ten installments in cases of financial hardship, upon written request stating the reasons.
Task force for exceptions
In addition, a task force comprising Brussels Taxation, Brussels Mobility, and Brussels Environment will determine exceptions for certain professional purposes and identify the most vulnerable groups that may be eligible for an exemption, such as individuals with Beneficiary of the Increased Allowance (BIM) status.
On April 23, two texts will be submitted to the Brussels government, with a view to sending them to the Council of State on May 7 or as soon as possible, according to a statement by Minister-President Boris Dilliès (MR).
An interesting detail: by opting for the interim solution – the old system remains in effect until the new penalty system is fully implemented – Finance Minister Dirk De Smedt (Anders) is conceding in one area, even as he blocks decisions in others.
Under pressure from Dilliès, an internal 10-day deadline has been imposed on De Smedt to have his administration confirm whether the systems can be technically ready by June 7. He had previously stated that violators cannot be fined because the Brussels Tax Office has not yet finalized the new fine system.
According to De Standaard, De Smedt is refusing to sign off on subsidies for the civic groups Bral and Inter-Environnement Bruxelles, which have spoken out in favor of a strict LEZ and against any relaxation of the rules.
De Smedt argues, on principle, that it is illogical for the government to subsidize associations that subsequently take that same government to court or challenge its policies. In any case, if you can’t see the wood for the trees, visit LEZ.Brussels to stay up to date on the latest developments.
