On July 10th 2008 the continuing fuel crisis compelled the Costa Rican government to extend the vehicular restriction hours from 6am to 7pm, in order to reduce fuel consumption and traffic congestion as well as to promote alternative options such as public transportation or carpooling.
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The Rule: Cars with plates ending in the numbers below will not be able to enter the zone from (6am to 7pm),
1 or 2 on Mondays
3 or 4 on Tuesdays,
5 and 6 on Wednesdays,
7 and 8 on Thursdays,
9 and 0 on Fridays.
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The vice-minister explained clearly the regulations in force:
1. Restricted during 6am and 7pm, depending on the last digit of the license plate, are all passenger vehicles, private and public, and light commercial vehicles (vehicles with the license plate “cl”)
2. Commercial vehicles (vehicles with plates “c”) are only restricted during 6am and 8:30am and 4:30pm and 7pm, depending on the last digit of the license plate
3. All emergency vehicles - police, fire, ambulance, tránsito - public buses, taxis, motorcycles and handicapped vehicles are excuded
4. School buses, tourism buses and private buses carrying workers, along with light vehicles carrying perishable products are excluded
5. Excluded from the restrictions are also vehicles providing essential public services
The vice-minister stressed that all government vehicles, including vehicles of Ministries and Institutions not providing essential public services are included in the restriction.
The fine for violation is ¢5,000, equivalent to about $10.
