From January 1, 2026, residents of Utrecht can apply for a subsidy to demolish their old diesel cars (emission class 0 to 4). This prepares the municipality for the expansion of the environmental zone to the municipal borders by January 1, 2027 for healthier air.
The subsidy is available for the first six months for U-pass holders, students, households with a low income (an income up to 150% of the social minimum, including self-employed persons) and holders of a disability parking permit. After that, any resident of Utrecht with an old diesel car up to emission class 4 can use the scheme.
The subsidy amounts vary from 500 to 3,000 euros, depending on the emission class of the car and the applicants situation. The demolition must take place at recognized ARN dismantling companies, so that the car is processed sustainably and materials are reused as much as possible. This way, the most polluting cars will disappear from traffic, and the air in Utrecht can become cleaner.
Councillor Eva Oosters (Environment and Emission-Free Transport): “With this scheme, we help residents transition to cleaner transport and together take an important step towards healthier air for the health of our residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors.”
The scheme will be published in the Municipal Gazette starting January 2026 and explained on Utrecht.nl, where residents can also submit their subsidy application.
Help and contact Municipality of Utrecht
Visiting address
Stadsplateau 1
3521 AZ Utrecht
Mailing address
Postbus 16200
3500 CE Utrecht
