This weekend, the “Hoy No Circula” (No Circulation Today) program returns, part of an ongoing initiative by the Mexico City Environment Secretariat (SEDEMA) aimed at reducing pollution levels. This means that car owners need to be vigilant about their vehicle’s hologram and license plate number when planning outings in Mexico City and surrounding areas.
Understanding the Restrictions
The Saturday restrictions don’t only apply to the 16 districts of Mexico City (CDMX); they extend to several suburban municipalities in the State of Mexico. The following areas will also enforce these traffic regulations:
- 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
Traveling through any of these municipalities will also subject you to the “Hoy No Circula” rules.
Which Vehicles are Affected?
The primary goal of the “Hoy No Circula” initiative is to limit vehicle circulation to combat emissions effectively. On Saturdays, the specific rules depend on the last digit of your license plate and the hologram assigned to your vehicle.
It’s important to note that the regulations are enforced from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Outside these hours, you may move freely unless additional environmental emergency measures are in place.
Specifics for July 18, 2026
This year, July 18 falls on the third Saturday of the month, categorized as an “odd week.” Vehicles with hologram 1 that end in an odd number must remain off the road during the designated hours. However, cars with holograms 0 and 00 can circulate without restriction. Conversely, those with hologram 2 face a complete ban on Saturdays.
Exempt Vehicles
Some vehicles are exempt from the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions:
- Electric, natural gas, or hybrid technology vehicles
- Vehicles registered for individuals with disabilities
- Urban public transport vehicles, including funeral services
- School or passenger transport vehicles
- Vehicles designated for public security or civil protection
Punishments for Non-compliance
Failing to adhere to the “Hoy No Circula” regulations can result in a fine ranging from 20 to 30 times the value of the Measurement and Update Unit (UMA), translating to approximately 1,924.40 to 2,886.60 pesos. Violators may also face having their vehicles towed and additional administrative hassles.
In summary, understanding the “Hoy No Circula” rules can save you from penalties while contributing to cleaner air in Mexico City. Stay informed and plan your travels accordingly!
Photo attribution: Silas Lundquist