The city of Quito continues to enforce the Pico y Placa system, a vehicle circulation regulation aimed at reducing traffic congestion during peak hours. On Thursday, February 26, 2026, vehicles with license plates ending in 7 and 8 will be prohibited from circulating between 06:00 and 09:30 in the morning and again between 16:00 and 20:00 in the evening. This measure affects both cars and motorcycles, and the restrictions are based on the last digit of the vehicle's license plate.

For those who violate these circulation restrictions, fines will be imposed, which increase with each subsequent infraction. The first offense will result in a $72.30 fine, while a second violation will soar to $144.60, and a third infraction will lead to a significant fine of $241. These penalties are tied to a set percentage of Ecuador's unified basic salary, reflecting serious implications for repeat offenders. This policy aims to encourage compliance to alleviate traffic issues in the capital.

The approval of reforms to the ordinance governing the Pico y Placa restrictions indicates the local government's commitment to addressing vehicular congestion. By regulating traffic effectively, officials hope to improve the quality of life for Quito residents, making commutes more predictable and less stressful. As vehicle ownership continues to rise, such measures may become increasingly vital for urban planning and sustainability in the city.