Putting up no-parking signs in Cologne

Notice period, zone length and hiring signs.

No-parking signs must be put up 72 hours before they take effect in Cologne. Better still, put them up 4 Tage in advance. The Amt für öffentliche Ordnung only issues the permit, you organise the signs separately.

Notice period

The signs must be put up 72 hours before the no-parking restriction takes effect . This gives local residents enough time to move their vehicles.

Recommendation: Better to put up the signs 4 Tage in advance . That way you have a buffer if something goes wrong.

Example: If your no-parking restriction starts on Saturday at 8:00, the signs must be in place by Wednesday at the latest by 8:00. With a 4-day buffer: put them up on Tuesday.

After the no-parking restriction: The signs must be removed once the work is finished. Do not leave them up any longer than necessary.

Where to hire signs

The Amt für öffentliche Ordnung only issues the permit. You have to organise the traffic signs separately.

Options:

• Sign hire in Cologne
• Roadworks safety companies (or traffic management)
• Removal firms with a sign service
• All-in-one providers (application + signs + putting them up)

Costs:

• Single sign: 30 to 50 EUR
• Erection service: 20 to 40 EUR per sign
• Complete package: from about 100 EUR

Special features in Cologne

Signs on both sides:
In narrow streets, the authority often requires signs to be put up on both sides. This means:

• Signs on both sides of the road
• More signs needed
• Higher costs

Clearances for through traffic:
If emergency access routes are affected, you should expect stricter conditions. The review is then carried out more quickly and more thoroughly.

Pedestrian zones:
For no-parking restrictions in pedestrian zones or restricted areas, separate exemption permits apply with stricter requirements.

Documentation

Good documentation protects you if problems arise.

Recommended:

• Photos of the signs once they have been put up
• Note down the date and time the signs were put up
• Document the position and spacing
• Note down the number plates of vehicles already parked

Why is this important?

• Evidence in disputes with illegally parked vehicles
• Protection during checks by the Ordnungsamt
• Documentation for any towing measures

All information provided without guarantee. Only Amt für öffentliche Ordnung Köln can provide legally binding information.

Frequently asked questions

How long in advance do the signs have to be in place?

72 hours before they take effect, better to put them up 4 Tage in advance.

How long does the zone have to be?

A lorry weighing 7,5 tonnes needs about 15 metres. For a van, you should allow around 10 metres.

When are signs required on both sides?

In narrow streets the authority often requires signs to be put up on both sides.

Where do I get the signs?

From sign hire companies or roadworks safety companies. The Amt only issues the permit.

What happens if there are problems with access through?

For emergency access routes or bottlenecks, stricter conditions and a faster review apply.