A Newcastle & Gateshead Clean Air Zone Guide

Since January 30th, 2023, a fully enforced Clean Air Zone (CAZ) has been in place across Newcastle and Gateshead.

The scheme restricts certain high-emission vehicles from driving through key parts of the city centres, aiming to cut down air pollution and improve public health.

So, what does this mean for local drivers? Where does the CAZ apply, and who has to pay? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Clean Air Zone?

A Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is an area where local authorities have brought in restrictions to reduce traffic-related emissions – especially nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), which are known to harm both health and the environment.

The idea behind CAZs is simple: improve air quality by encouraging the use of cleaner vehicles and helping cities become more sustainable for those who live and work there.

Many UK cities have now rolled out Clean Air Zones, as part of the wider push to tackle climate change and improve urban living conditions.

Compared to Low Emission Zones (LEZs) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZs), CAZs tend to be less strict – particularly when it comes to private vehicles.

While ULEZs like the one in London are the most demanding, CAZs strike more of a balance between reducing emissions and maintaining accessibility for businesses and drivers.

The Newcastle and Gateshead Clean Air Zone is part of this national effort to create cleaner, healthier city environments.

Newcastle and Gateshead Clean Air Zone Map

The CAZ covers parts of Newcastle city centre, the Tyne, and surrounding routes into Gateshead. It includes areas with heavy traffic where pollution has been consistently high.

See the map of Newcastle and Gatehead below.

Newcastle Clean Air Zone Charges and How to Pay

The payment system for the Newcastle and Gateshead CAZ is designed to be as straightforward as possible.

Drivers of non-compliant vehicles can pay:

• Up to 6 days before their journey
• On the day of travel
• Or within 6 days after entering the zone

The charge allows for multiple entries and exits in one day once payment is made.

Here’s a quick look at the current daily charges for non-compliant vehicles:

• £50 per day for buses, coaches & HGVs
• £12.50 per day for taxis, vans, LGVs and minibuses

Please note that private cars and motorcycles are not charged, even if they don’t meet emissions standards.

You can pay online through the Government’s CAZ payment portal or check with Newcastle City Council for more information.

Is Your Vehicle Compliant?

Wondering if your vehicle will be charged in the CAZ? You can use the Government’s official vehicle checker by entering your registration number.

It’ll tell you instantly whether your vehicle meets the emissions standards or if you’ll need to pay the daily charge.

The checker is linked to national DVLA and emissions data, so it’s accurate and regularly updated.

Check your vehicle compliance here.

Where Are Clean Air Zones in the UK?

Clean Air Zones (and related schemes like LEZs and ULEZs) are now operating in several cities across the UK, including:

• Aberdeen (LEZ)
• Bath (CAZ)
• Birmingham (CAZ)
• Bradford (CAZ)
• Bristol (CAZ)
• Dundee (LEZ)
• Edinburgh (LEZ)
• Glasgow (LEZ)
• London (ULEZ)
• Newcastle and Gateshead (CAZ)
• Oxford (CAZ)
• Portsmouth (CAZ)
• Sheffield (CAZ)

ULEZ and LEZ schemes are generally more stringent, particularly for older diesel vehicles. CAZs typically focus on commercial vehicles but vary slightly in rules from city to city.

Want a clearer explanation of how these zones differ? Read our guide to CAZ, LEZ and ULEZ terminology.

Which Vehicles Are Exempt?

In Newcastle and Gateshead’s CAZ, the following vehicles are exempt from daily charges:

• Private cars and motorcycles (regardless of emissions)
• Vehicles that meet the latest Euro emissions standards
• Nationally exempt vehicles such as emergency services or military vehicles
• Certain specialist vehicles, subject to council approval

Always double-check with the online checker if you’re unsure about your vehicle’s status.

Are Clean Air Zones Here to Stay?

Yes – for now, there are no plans to remove Clean Air Zones. They’re a central part of the UK’s long-term strategy to reduce emissions and protect public health.

If you’re keen to avoid charges altogether, upgrading to a cleaner vehicle – such as an electric or plug-in hybrid – is one of the most reliable ways to stay compliant with CAZ rules. These vehicle types are also generally exempt from charges in LEZs and ULEZs.