What do we call the fee charged for using a private vehicle in certain areas during designated times?

The fee charged for using a private vehicle in certain areas during designated times is known as a congestion charge. This charge is implemented in urban areas to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion, especially during peak travel times. The primary goal of a congestion charge is to encourage drivers to use alternative modes of transport, such as public transport, cycling, or walking, thereby alleviating traffic jams and lowering pollution levels in heavily trafficked areas. Typically, this fee is enforced in central business districts or high-traffic zones where congestion is most problematic.

In contrast, a toll charge usually refers to fees for using specific roads or bridges, irrespective of the traffic levels. A parking fee is the cost associated with leaving a vehicle in a designated parking spot, and an emission fee is levied on vehicles based on their environmental impact and emissions rather than being time- or area-specific.