The Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ) is a central London area where drivers must pay a daily fee during designated hours. It aims to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and fund public transport improvements. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know—fees, hours, exemptions, future changes, and how London Garages helps you avoid the charge while keeping your vehicle secure.
London Congestion Charge Zone — What You Need to Know
Why It Matters for London Garages Visitors
Parking in the zone can be costly and inconvenient. By renting a secure space just outside the zone, you:
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Avoid the Congestion Charge completely, saving up to £18 per day.
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Enjoy 24/7 access, CCTV, and safe storage for your vehicle.
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Skip daily zone monitoring and traffic stress.
Tips for Navigating the Charge
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Plan Ahead: Know the zone boundaries and confirm if your chosen garage falls outside the CCZ.
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Auto Pay Is Smart: This ensures the best rate and avoids penalties.
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Watch Future Changes: From 2026, vehicle types and resident discounts may change—check updates ahead of time.
Quick-Reference Table for Congestion Zone
| Day | Charge Hours | Daily Fee | Late Payment Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 7:00 am – 6:00 pm | £15 | £17.50 (up to 3 days after) | Applies to most vehicles |
| Saturday – Sunday | 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm | £15 | £17.50 | Applies on bank holidays too |
| Christmas – New Year | No charge | £0 | – | Suspended annually |
(Update for January 2026: Fee proposed to rise to £18/£21. EVs & vans to lose discounts.)
Charges & Operating Times
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Current Fees (2025): £15 per day if paid in advance or on the same day; increases to £17.50 if paid up to three days later
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Operating Hours:
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Monday–Friday: 7:00 am–6:00 pm
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Saturday–Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12:00 pm–6:00 pm
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The charge is suspended between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day inclusive
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Proposed Changes For 2026
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TfL is proposing to raise the standard charge to £18 per day, and the late payment fee to £21
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The resident discount (currently 90%) may be phased out unless the driver uses a fully electric vehicle.
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Cleaner vehicle discounts will be reduced: electric vans at 50%, electric cars at 25% initially, further reduced from 2030
Areas We Cover
Our available parking spaces span across Central London, inside and outside the Congestion Charge zone, including:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a London Garages location is outside the congestion zone?
Use the availability map or check garage listings—they highlight whether a site is within or just outside the zone.
What if I accidentally drive in the CCZ without paying?
Penalties can reach £65–£195. Pay promptly via TfL to avoid fines. Details
Can electric vehicles avoid the charge?
Currently yes. But starting 2026, EVs will be charged, with only a 25% Auto Pay discount, and discounts for electric vans will also reduce
Is there any time of day when the charge doesn’t apply?
Yes—outside charging hours (before 7 am weekdays, before 12 pm weekends)—but it’s very easy to accidentally drive in. Best to park outside the zone and walk or take public transport.
Are all London Garages parking spaces and garages inside the zone?
No they are not. We have various parking spaces and lock-up garages available in London and some are outside of the congestion zone.