A “Doble Hoy No Circula” program will be in effect this Friday, February 13th, between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM, due to high levels of ozone pollution in the Zona Metropolitana del Valle de México.
Doble Hoy No Circula Restrictions
The restrictions impact a wide range of vehicles. Cars with a verification hologram number 2 are prohibited from circulating. Vehicles with a hologram number 1 will be restricted if the last digit of their license plate is 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, or 0. Vehicles with holograms 0 or 00 with a blue sticker, ending in 9 or 0, are also subject to the restrictions.
The restrictions extend to vehicles without a hologram—including older models, demonstration vehicles, new cars, those with a tourist pass, or out-of-state plates—and 50% of liquefied petroleum gas (L.P.) delivery vehicles lacking a dry disconnection valve and a NON license plate ending. Restrictions also apply to local and federal cargo vehicles between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM, with exceptions for those enrolled in self-regulation programs, and taxis will be affected according to their hologram restrictions from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Recommendations for the Public
The Comisión Ambiental de la Megalópolis recommends reducing exposure to contaminated air during this Phase I ozone contingency. This includes avoiding outdoor activities and exercise between 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, suspending sporting, cultural, and recreational events during those hours, and refraining from smoking, especially indoors.
Residents are also encouraged to operate remotely, conduct transactions online, limit the use of emission-generating products like aerosols and paints, and stay informed about air quality through the “Aire” app or official social media channels.
Enforcement and Exemptions
The Unidades de Vigilancia Ambiental are authorized to inspect vehicles and issue fines to those found in violation. Vehicles from out of state that are visibly polluting may have their license plates removed as a precautionary measure.
Exemptions to the restrictions include electric and hybrid vehicles, emergency vehicles, school transportation, funeral vehicles, vehicles with “0” or “00” holograms that are not blue, refrigerated transport of perishable goods, motorcycles, and individuals with disabilities who have a valid permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hours will the restrictions be in effect?
The “Doble Hoy No Circula” program will be in effect from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Friday, February 13th.
What vehicles are exempt from the restrictions?
Vehicles exempt include electric and hybrid vehicles, emergency vehicles, school transportation, funeral vehicles, those with “0” or “00” holograms that are not blue, refrigerated transport of perishable goods, motorcycles, and people with disabilities with a valid permit.
What happens if I violate the restrictions?
Individuals who violate the restrictions may be fined between 2,342.6 and 3,519.3 pesos. Vehicles from out of state that are visibly polluting may have their license plates removed.
As air quality conditions continue to be monitored, will these restrictions be extended beyond Friday?
