Malaga May Refund Low-Emission Zone Fines After Court Overturns Rules

Following a high court ruling that the Malaga Low-Emissions zone discriminated against vehicles based on registration location, the city council is reviewing whether to refund penalties already collected. Mayor Francisco de la Torre stated that any repayment will depend on legal requirements rather than an automatic policy. The zone, which spanned roughly 404 hectares, charged €200 for violations, with a €100 reduction for early payment, and targeted cars lacking an environmental sticker if registered outside the capital.

One outlet's reports indicated more than 46,000 fines had been issued by late July, but the total number actually paid remains unclear. Opposition politicians are pressing for a blanket refund and interest, while the council has yet to announce a specific procedure or schedule. Drivers are advised to keep their fine notices and payment proof and to contact the tax and collection service Gestrisam for individual guidance. A revised low-emission regulation is expected, but the immediate concern is whether money paid under the invalidated rules will be returned.