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Can diesel cars drive in Copenhagen's environmental zone?

Rules for diesel passenger cars

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Short answer

Diesel cars and minibuses may only drive in the environmental zones if they have a particulate filter or meet at least Euro 5. The rule has applied since 1 October 2023 in Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Odense, Aarhus and Aalborg, and it covers Danish and foreign cars alike. Diesel vans up to 3,5 tonnes have had similar rules since 1 July 2020. Breaking the rules costs a fine of 1,500 kr. for a car or minibus as of November 2026.

Copenhagen

Why

  1. Filter or at least Euro 5.
  2. Rule in force since 1 October 2023.
  3. Same rules for foreign cars.

Details

Any type of particulate filter meets the zone rules, and a Danish car that gets a filter fitted saves 1,000 kr. a year in particle emission tax.

Tip

Check your number plate in the online vehicle check on the zone website before you drive into the city.

What may differ

Exemptions exist, for example for Danish-registered veteran cars and certain emergency vehicles.

Common misconception

Many think the zones only apply to lorries and buses.

What actually happens

Since 1 October 2023 diesel passenger cars without a filter or Euro 5 are also banned from the zones.

People also ask

  • Which cities in Denmark have environmental zones?
  • Do foreign cars need to register for the zones?
  • Do petrol cars have to follow the zone rules?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules, fines and fees can change, so check the Danish authorities before you drive.

Copenhagen
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