Feature Proposal: Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) Support for Sofia, Bulgaria

Map Editors Community Bulgaria
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Feature Proposal: Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) Support for Sofia, Bulgaria

Hello Waze Team,

I would like to propose the addition of full Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) support for Sofia, based on the official municipal requirements introduced in recent years. These zones include two regulated areas — Малък ринг (Inner Ring) and Голям ринг (Outer Ring) — with entry restrictions depending on the vehicle’s EURO emission category.

1. Add Vehicle EURO Category to Car Settings

Introduce a new field in “Vehicle Details” where users can select their EURO class:

  • EURO 1
  • EURO 2
  • EURO 3
  • EURO 4
  • EURO 5
  • EURO 6
  • Optional: Petrol / Diesel distinction

This allows Waze to accurately determine whether a vehicle is allowed to enter a specific LEZ zone. And can be used in many cities in the whole wolrd

2. Automatic Detection and Blocking of LEZ Entry

Once the EURO category is set:

  • If the vehicle does not meet the LEZ requirements for Малък ринг or Голям ринг,
  • Waze should automatically avoid routing through the restricted zone.

If no alternative route exists, Waze should display a clear warning:

  • Entry into this LEZ is prohibited for your vehicle type
  • Restriction is based on your EURO emission class
  • Include the municipal rule and timeframe (if the zone is time-based)

This behavior should work similarly to existing features like “Avoid toll roads” or “Avoid restricted areas,” but governed by emission compliance.

3. Suggest Nearest Legal Entry or Parking

If a destination lies inside a restricted zone and the user’s vehicle does not qualify:

  • Waze should suggest the closest legal entry point, such as:
    • A street just outside the LEZ boundary
    • Park-and-ride zones near metro stations
    • Public parking outside Малък or Голям ринг

This preserves route usability while ensuring users stay compliant with LEZ regulations.

4. Visual Map Layer for LEZ Boundaries

Add a dedicated visual layer indicating:

  • Малък ринг (Inner Ring)
  • Голям ринг (Outer Ring)

image
image1920×2073 3.01 MB

This helps drivers understand why routing changes were made.

Why This Feature Matters

Sofia’s LEZ regulations are now a permanent part of urban mobility and apply to many vehicle categories. Implementing this feature will:

  • Improve route accuracy and legal compliance
  • Help avoid accidental violations and fines
  • Support clean-air and environmental policies
  • Align Waze with navigation features already used in other EU cities

Conclusion

Adding LEZ support for Sofia will significantly enhance Waze usability and safety. The combination of:

  • EURO category settings
  • Automatic LEZ avoidance
  • Smart rerouting and nearest-allowed location suggestions
  • Visual zone boundaries

…will create a more consistent, reliable experience for all users.
I am happy to provide official LEZ boundary data (Малък и Голям ринг) if required.

Thank you for considering this proposal.

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