Mexico City Implements Strict Driving Restrictions Amid Air Quality Concerns
Mexico City residents face significant transportation limitations starting tomorrow, Friday, February 13, as authorities activate Phase I of the ozone contingency plan in the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico. The measures, designed to reduce air pollution, will restrict the circulation of a wide range of vehicles from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Who is Affected by the Restrictions?
The restrictions target vehicles based on their holographic verification sticker and license plate number. Specifically, the following vehicles are prohibited from circulating:
- Private cars with a hologram 2.
- Private cars with a hologram 1 and a final license plate digit of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, or 0.
- Private cars with a hologram 0 or 00, a blue sticker, and a plate ending in 9 or 0.
- Vehicles without a hologram, including older models, demonstration cars, new cars, those with tourist passes, or foreign plates – subject to the same restrictions as vehicles with a hologram 2.
- 50% of LP gas distribution units lacking a dry disconnection valve and proper registration termination.
- Local and federal cargo vehicles between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., with exceptions for those enrolled in self-regulation programs.
- Taxis adhering to restrictions based on their hologram, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Exemptions to the Driving Ban
Despite the broad restrictions, several vehicle types are exempt from the ban. These include:
- Electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Emergency vehicles.
- School transportation.
- Funeral vehicles.
- Vehicles with non-blue “0” or “00” holograms.
- Transport of perishable goods requiring refrigeration.
- Motorcycles.
- Individuals with disabilities possessing a valid permit.
Public Health Recommendations
The Environmental Commission of the Megalopolis urges residents to minimize exposure to contaminated air during this period. Key recommendations include avoiding outdoor activities and exercise between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., suspending sporting, cultural, and recreational events during those hours, and refraining from smoking, particularly indoors. Residents are also encouraged to work remotely, conduct transactions online, and limit the use of emission-generating products like aerosols, paints, and solvents. Staying informed about air quality through the “Aire” app or official networks is also advised.
Penalties for Violating Restrictions
Authorities are prepared to enforce the restrictions with significant financial penalties. According to the Environmental Law on Land Protection in the Federal District and its Regulations on Vehicle Verification, drivers found in violation face fines ranging from 2,342.6 to 3,519.3 pesos. This range is based on 20 to 30 Measurement and Update Units (UMA), with each UMA valued at 117.31 pesos in 2026.
Enforcement Measures
The Environmental Surveillance Units are authorized to conduct inspections to identify vehicles violating the restrictions. A penalty ticket will be issued to those found in violation, and foreign vehicles deemed excessively polluting may have their license plates removed as a precautionary measure.
These measures underscore the severity of the air quality situation in the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico and the commitment of authorities to protect public health.
