This weekend, the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions return for their usual Saturday edition, an initiative created by the Secretariat of the Environment of Mexico City (SEDEMA) aimed at reducing pollution levels in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico.
Drivers must verify their vehicle’s license plate final digit and the type of hologram before heading out. These regulations extend beyond the 16 districts of Mexico City, impacting various neighboring towns in the State of Mexico, including:
- Atizapan de Zaragoza
- Coacalco de Berriozábal
- Cuautitlan
- Cuautitlán Izcalli
- Chalco
- Chicoloapan
- Chimalhuacan
- Ecatepec de Morelos
- Huixquilucan
- Ixtapaluca
- La Paz
- Naucalpan de Juárez
- Nezahualcoyotl
- Nicolas Romero
- Tecámac
- Tlalnepantla de Baz
- Tultitlan
- Chalco Valley
If your journey includes any of these areas, the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions will apply this Saturday.
Understanding the “Hoy No Circula” Restrictions
The primary aim of “Hoy No Circula” is to decrease polluting emissions in the atmosphere. The program operates under specific rules during weekends, complementing regulations from Monday through Friday. Not all vehicles are affected simultaneously; restrictions depend on the hologram type, the final digit of the license plate, and whether it is an even or odd week in the month.
It’s crucial to note that the “Hoy No Circula” program is active from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. this Saturday. Outside these hours, drivers may circulate freely, barring any environmental emergency alerts or unique regulatory adjustments impacting traffic.
Restrictions for July 11, 2026
On Saturday, July 11, 2026, you’ll find that it is the second Saturday of the month, categorized as an even week. According to the established rules, vehicles with hologram 1 and even-numbered license plates will not be allowed on the roads during the program’s active hours.
If your vehicle falls under this category, parking is mandatory until 10:00 p.m. Conversely, cars bearing holograms 0 and 00 are allowed to circulate freely. It’s also important to remember that vehicles with hologram 2 are prohibited from circulating on any Saturday, regardless of whether it’s an even or odd week.
Exemptions from the Restrictions
There are specific vehicles exempt from the “Hoy No Circula” limitations:
- Electric, natural gas, or hybrid vehicles
- Vehicles with plates registered for people with disabilities
- Public transportation vehicles, including those used for funerals
- Vehicles designated for school or passenger transport
- Vehicles assigned to public security or civil protection
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to adhere to the “Hoy No Circula” rules may result in fines ranging from 20 to 30 times the Measurement and Update Unit (UMA), which roughly translates to 1,924.40 pesos at the minimum to 2,886.60 pesos at the maximum. Additionally, offenders may face navigating the towing process for their vehicle, resulting in additional lost time and effort.
By adhering to the “Hoy No Circula” regulations, drivers can contribute to a cleaner environment while avoiding fines and penalties. Stay informed and enjoy your weekend while prioritizing air quality!
Photo | Cory Bouthillette