Why ZTLs are gaining ground
From Rome to Paris, the limited traffic zones (ZTL) have a triple objective: to calm city centers, reduce local pollution and restore space to active mobility. Between 2010 and 2025, the total length of restricted-access streets in Europe has quadrupled.
Rome – Madrid – Paris comparison
| City | Perimeter | Active hours | Access technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | 4.2 km² | 6 a.m.–6 p.m. | LAPI + resident badge |
| Madrid | Low Emission Zone 20 km² | 24/7 | LAPI + Eco scoring |
| Paris | “Paris Centre” quiet zone, 11th arr. | Day: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. | Free-Flow Virtual Barrier |
- In Rome, inbound traffic fell by 20% between 2019 and 2024, while the modal share of cycling doubled.[1]
- Madrid records a decrease of 33 µg/m³ of NO2 at the Gran Via station.[2]
- Paris estimates a 13-minute saving in bus time in the Rivoli sector after the 2024 experiment.
the Challenges
ZTLs rely on the same technical foundation as tolls, but the fact that they are free (for now) makes handling disputes more complex. According to the Paris Mobility Observatory, there are an average of 8 false positives.
The role of communication
The visibility of gates, the granularity of exemptions, and the quality of support channels (chatbot, SMS) are all factors in social acceptance. Rome has launched a dedicated WhatsApp number, Madrid an app: Madrid 360.
The ZTLs are not just a punitive measure: they prefigure a regulated mobility system that relies on real-time data to arbitrate public space.
Sources :
[1] Comune di Roma – Rapporto Mobilità 2024.
[2] City of Madrid – Informe de Calidad del Aire 2024.
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