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Oviedo’s Low Emission Zone Takes Effect, Prompting Early Strains for Historic-Center Shops

Merchants report delivery snags, a confusing exemptions app, customer fear of fines.

Overview

  • Restrictions on higher-emission vehicles began January 1 across Oviedo’s inner ring, covering the historic Oviedo Antiguo district.
  • Shopkeepers say transporters may face fleet upgrades or new permits, with deliveries likely split into smaller batches to comply.
  • Employees who drive from outside the center report difficulty using the exemptions app and some are leaving cars parked to avoid fines.
  • Anecdotes include service providers needing permits for older vans, with the process described as burdensome and time-consuming.
  • Some owners question the zone’s boundaries and fear customers could shift to shopping centers, while others caution it is too soon to judge overall impact.