Apply for a no-parking zone in Cologne
Submit an application, documents and processing time.
You apply for a no-parking zone in Cologne at the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung. The processing time is approx. 3 W weeks. In complex cases it can take up to 4 W weeks.
Submit an application
The City of Cologne’s Amt für öffentliche Ordnung is responsible for approving no-parking zones. You can submit the application in various ways.
Submission methods:
- Online form (recommended)
- By email to Ausnahmegenehmigung-StVO@stadt-koeln.de
- By fax to 0221 / 221-26130
- By post
- Via the City’s secure contact form
Contact details for the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung:
Stadthaus Deutz, Willy-Brandt-Platz 3, 50679 Cologne
PO Box 10 35 64, 50475 Cologne
Telephone: 0221 / 221-26387, 0221 / 221-29509, 0221 / 221-26386
Fax: 0221 / 221-26130
Email: Ausnahmegenehmigung-StVO@stadt-koeln.de
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 8 to 12 and by appointment
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Required documents
You can use the official application form or submit an informal written application.
The application must include:
- Name, address, phone number, fax number
- Moving date
- Duration of the move (time from ... to ...)
- Description of the local conditions (traffic signs, parking bays, etc.)
- Exact location for the no-parking signs (street and house number)
- Length of the no-parking zone in metres
- Confirmation that the description is correct
Sketch:
For straightforward measures, a precise hand-drawn sketch showing position and length is sufficient. In more complex cases (multiple signs, bottlenecks), a formal traffic sign plan is required.
Zone length
The correct zone length is important for your application.
Guideline values:
- Lorry 7,5 tonnes: approx. 15 metres
- Smaller van: approx. 10 metres
- Large removal lorry: 15 to 20 metres
Rule of thumb: Allow at least 15 metres enter. Bear in mind that you also need space behind the vehicle.
In the application: Specify the length in metres. The Amt checks whether the length is appropriate.
Types of permit in Köln
In Köln there are various types of permit:
- Mobile no-stopping zone: Classic exemption permit for removals, limited to a specific time/date/location
- Parking space reservation: If a vehicle is to be parked in the no-stopping zone (separate fee)
- External lift/building site: Runs via a building site permit, longer lead times
- Loading activity in pedestrian zones: Separate exemption permit required
For a normal removal you need the mobile no-stopping zone.
Processing time
The processing time at the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung Köln is approx. 3 W weeks. In complex cases it can take up to 4 W weeks.
What extends processing:
- Site inspection (charged separately)
- Coordination with the police or other offices
- Incomplete application documents
Important deadlines:
- Standard: Approx. 3 W weeks processing time
- Complex: Up to 4 W weeks
- Signs: put up 72 hours before they become valid (better 4 Tage)
Short-notice applications: For applications with less than 14 Tage lead time there is a risk of a site inspection, rejection or additional fees.
Changes
Changes to permits already granted (date, time, address) cost 8,50 EUR extra.
More on the costs in the Costs guide. Details on putting up signs in the Signs guide.
All information provided without guarantee. Only the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung Köln can provide binding information.
Frequently asked questions
How long does processing take in Köln?
Approx. 3 W weeks, in complex cases up to 4 W weeks.
Can I submit the application online?
Yes, via the City of Köln online form or by email to Ausnahmegenehmigung-StVO@stadt-koeln.de.
How much does a no-stopping zone cost in Köln?
36 EUR for the first day, 18 EUR for each additional day.
Who is responsible in Köln?
The Amt für öffentliche Ordnung, Department of Road Traffic and Public Order Matters.
What documents do I need?
Name, address, moving date, duration, location details with house number and length in metres.