Since 5 November 2024, a Limited Traffic Zone (LTZ) has been in operation in the centre of the capital. The aim of this initiative is to reduce through-traffic, improve air quality and encourage soft mobility. Only vehicles destined for the streets within this perimeter are allowed to drive there. Through traffic, i.e. vehicles passing through the zone without stopping, is prohibited.
What is a Limited Traffic Zone (LTZ)?
An LTZ is an urban zone where through traffic, i.e. vehicles passing through the zone without stopping, is prohibited. Only vehicles with a specific reason for entering the zone are allowed to do so.
What are the goals of the Paris LTZ?
- Reduced air pollution: by limiting the number of vehicles, the LTZ aims to improve air quality by reducing polluting gas emissions.
- Reduced noise: less traffic means less noise pollution for residents and visitors.
- Promoting soft mobility: the LTZ encourages the use of alternative modes of transport such as walking, cycling and public transport.
What is the scope of the LTZ?
The Paris LTZ covers the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th arrondissements, but excludes the Grands Boulevards to the north, the îles de la Cité and Saint-Louis, and the Quais bas and Quais haut rive droite in the west-east direction. This zone includes emblematic districts such as the Louvre and the Marais.
Who can drive in the LTZ?
Only vehicles originating or destined for the streets within this perimeter are authorised to drive there. This restriction applies to motorised vehicles: cars, motorbikes, light commercial vehicles and heavy goods vehicles. Through traffic, i.e. vehicles that simply pass through the zone without stopping, is prohibited. You can drive into the centre of Paris if :
- you live there
- you work there
- you go to a medical or professional appointment
- You are going to visit people
- You are going to the cinema
- You are going shopping
- You are parking in a car park
How do you get there and park?
Despite the restrictions, it is perfectly possible to park in the LTZ using the car parks if you need to go there for a meeting, a shopping trip, a visit to a museum or dinner with friends.
Saemes car parks in this area are accessible 24 hours a day, and you can even book your space in advance.
- Louvre Pyramides Saemes car park (1er) : 500 m from the Louvre Museum and close to the Avenue de l'Opéra.
- Les Halles St Eustache Saemes car park (1er) : under the Forum des Halles and a stone's throw from the Fondation Pinault Bourse du Commerce.
- Hôtel de Ville Saemes car park (4e) : under the forecourt of the Hôtel de Ville. It's the ideal car park for the Marais area.
- Rivoli Sébastopol Saemes car park (4e) : just a stone's throw from rue de Rivoli, the Centre Pompidou and the Quais de Seine.
You can also take advantage of the recharging stations to fill up while you're parked!