Complete guide to the ZTL in Turin for drivers

What does ZTL mean in Turin and what are its main functions?

The ZTL, or Limited Traffic Zone, is an area of the city where access and parking are regulated by prohibitions and limits, especially during certain hours. The purpose of the ZTL in Turin is to reduce traffic in the most congested neighborhoods and improve air quality due to the lower number of vehicles in the city center and the control of emissions. It is a measure present in many Italian cities, but in Turin it takes on particular importance because traffic here is among the most intense in Italy, with an average of 44 hours a year spent in traffic jams by motorists.

What are the main ZTL areas in Turin?

The main ZTL areas in Turin are two: the Central ZTL and the Valentino ZTL. Within the Central ZTL, there are also specific sub-zones: ZTL Area Romana, ZTL Public Transport, and ZTL Pedestrian. The Valentino ZTL, on the other hand, coincides with the large city park of the same name.

Where is the Central ZTL in Turin and what streets does it include?

The Central ZTL is located right in the heart of Turin's historic center and includes important streets such as via Cernaia and corso Solferino. To better understand the exact boundaries and access points, you can always consult the specific map provided by the Municipality of Turin.

What are the activation hours and days of the Central ZTL in Turin?

The Central ZTL is active every weekday, excluding Saturday and Sunday, from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM. During this time frame, transit and parking are prohibited for unauthorized vehicles. Outside these hours and on weekends, the ZTL is not active, so transit is free.

What are the limitations of the ZTL Area Romana and other internal sectors?

- In the ZTL Area Romana, transit and parking are prohibited every day, including holidays, from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. In piazza Emanuele Filiberto, the prohibition is in effect from 7:30 PM to 7:30 AM.  - In the Public Transport ZTL, streets and lanes reserved for public transport are closed to transit and parking every day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM; in this area, loading and unloading of goods can be done from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.  - The Pedestrian ZTL prohibits transit and parking every day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM; loading and unloading of goods is only possible from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

How does the Valentino ZTL work?

The Valentino ZTL, which corresponds to the area within the Parco del Valentino, has a total ban on vehicle circulation and parking every day, including holidays. In practice, you cannot circulate or park at any time of the day, except for law enforcement and emergency vehicles, as well as for loading and unloading goods if specifically authorized.

How does control work and what are the penalties if you enter the ZTL without permission?

Access to the ZTL is monitored by cameras installed at 27 points for the Central ZTL, plus another 11 points for the internal ZTLs. If you enter the area during prohibited hours without authorization, the cameras record the license plate, and a fine starting at around 80 euros will be sent to your home, plus assessment and notification costs (around 14 euros). If you pay within 5 days, you can get a 30% discount. There are no points deducted from your driving license for this violation.

Who can enter the ZTLs in Turin?

Transit and parking are only allowed for those in possession of a permit issued by the Municipality of Turin or by GTT S.p.A., or another valid authorization. These permits are linked to a specific license plate, and those who obtain them must still comply with the hours and rules indicated in the permit. You can find out more about permits by consulting the Municipality's page.

Is it possible to park in the ZTL if authorized?

Even if you have permission to transit, the parking rules remain regulated by rates and time slots: you can park, but you still have to pay for parking on blue lines, according to the rules communicated on the signs. Paying for access does not entitle you to park for free. You can use specific apps like ParkingMyCar to manage parking payments easily.

Can you access the ZTL to park inside garages?

Yes, there is a possibility for those who need to access the Central ZTL during prohibited hours: you can enter if you have booked parking in one of the private garages located within the area, but only through an exemption that must be requested and completed in advance through the garage manager. This allows you to avoid the fine.

How can tourists organize themselves to visit the center of Turin without risking fines?

- Plan your visit and parking in advance, preferably choosing external parking and then moving on foot or by public transport to enjoy the beauties of the center, such as the famous Egyptian Museum.  - If you book a hotel in the center, ask if they can register your license plate for access or recommend a partnered parking facility inside the ZTL.  - Always keep your location updated using maps and, if possible, download parking apps that help manage everything safely.

What practical advice can we give to residents and visitors?

- Always stay updated on regulations and any changes to the ZTL through blogs and official Municipality portals.  - Consult the map of access points to understand precisely where the access points and prohibited zones are.  - For those who often use the car, it may be useful to download apps like ParkingMyCar, which offer assistance and booking options both from the website and mobile app.  What happens if I change my car or license plate:

does the permit still apply?

ZTL permits are generally associated with the license plate. If you change your car or license plate, you must immediately update the permit by contacting the Municipality or GTT to avoid penalties.

What other anti-smog measures exist besides the ZTL?

In Turin, there are also specific traffic blocking measures for certain categories of polluting vehicles: in particular, the block concerns diesel cars Euro 5, 4, 3 during certain periods of the year or based on smog alerts.

How much does a fine for unauthorized access cost and can you appeal?

The fine starts at 80 euros and can increase based on severity. Paying within 5 days allows for a reduction. It is possible to appeal according to the procedures indicated in the notification.

Why is it important to consult the ZTL access map?

Consulting the updated map allows you to avoid errors, especially if you are not familiar with the city: you can plan your route and park outside the center, choosing free streets.  Extra tips for a safe and serene trip to Turin  - Avoid distractions, especially when using your phone to plan parking: organize your trip from home or as soon as you park.  - If traveling with children or the elderly, prefer areas that are easy to reach on foot and choose parking facilities equipped with additional services.