Warsaw will implement an automatic license plate camera system at Clean Transport Zone entrances starting in April, with stricter entry limits.
Automatic Camera System to Monitor Zone
From April, Warsaw’s method of controlling the Clean Transport Zone will change with an automatic camera system reading license plates at SCT entrances. This system will help detect vehicles not meeting emission standards or age requirements.
The cameras will not automatically issue fines but will identify vehicles violating SCT rules. The authority to impose fines remains with police and the Municipal Guard.
Occasional Entry Limits and Penalties
Vehicles not meeting SCT requirements can enter the zone for a maximum of 4 days per calendar year. Exceeding this limit will result in fines of up to 500 PLN when caught by authorities.
The camera system will track these occasional entries to ensure compliance. The fine will be imposed by police or Municipal Guard based on data from the Central Vehicle and Driver Register.
Zone Boundaries and Requirements
Warsaw’s Clean Transport Zone has been in effect since July 1, 2024, covering most of the city center and parts of surrounding districts. Boundaries are marked by streets such as al. Prymasa Tysiąclecia, Aleje Jerozolimskie, and al. Armii Ludowej.
From January 1, 2026, stricter requirements will apply for vehicles up to 3.5 tons, including emission standards and age restrictions. Further tightening is planned for January 1, 2028.
Exceptions and Implementation Challenges
The SCT includes exceptions provided by regulations and additional exclusions written in the resolution. The SCT sticker is available for those using exceptions when registry data is insufficient to confirm authorization.
In January, guards checked over 31,700 vehicles using license plate scanning equipment, discovering more than 1,750 vehicles not meeting SCT requirements. Similar tensions have accompanied the implementation of a Clean Transport Zone in Kraków.
