A recent decision by the Supreme Court has affirmed the nullity of the Low Emission Zones (LEZ) regulated by Madrid's Sustainable Mobility Ordinance. This ruling, dated April 15, 2026, dismisses the appeal filed by Madrid City Council, closing the door to further appeals and leaving the traffic restriction regulations in the capital in a legally vulnerable position.
The organization Automovilistas Europeos Asociados (AEA) has immediately reacted, formally requesting the mayor to annul all fines imposed under this now invalidated regulatory framework. According to the AEA, between September 2021 and November 2025, the council processed over 3.3 million fines, with an economic value exceeding 650 million euros. This amount, the association argues, should be returned to the affected citizens.
“"The city council cannot be a 'deceitful administration' if the paid sanctions are not refunded."
The nullity of the ordinance not only affects specific areas such as Distrito Centro or Plaza Elíptica but extends to all Low Emission Zones implemented in the city. The magnitude of this economic conflict could seriously compromise municipal budget forecasts if the council is forced to execute a massive refund of the collected amounts.
This precedent is not isolated, as similar situations occurred with the Low Emission Zones in Barcelona and Esplugues de Llobregat, where justice also sided with drivers. For those affected, expert advice is clear: do not consider the money lost and contact driver defense organizations to understand the next steps.
