No-Stopping Zone Moving

A no-stopping zone makes your move in Cologne considerably easier. You get free parking spaces right at your door and save time on moving day. The Public Order Office (Amt fuer oeffentliche Ordnung) processes applications in approx. 3 weeks. The application costs start at 36 EUR for 1 day.

When Is a No-Stopping Zone Worthwhile?

A no-stopping zone is particularly worthwhile in these situations:

• City centre location with high parking pressure
• Narrow streets without sufficient parking spaces
• Large move with a lot of furniture
• Moving truck needs space directly in front of the building

Advantages of a no-stopping zone:

• Guaranteed parking spaces on moving day
• Shorter distances between the flat and the transporter
• Less stress and a faster process

When you may be able to do without one:

• Quiet residential street with plenty of free parking spaces
• Own parking space or driveway available
• Very small move

Time Planning

Proper time planning is crucial for a successful move.

Important deadlines in Cologne:

• Submit application: approx. 3 weeks in advance at the Public Order Office (Amt fuer oeffentliche Ordnung) (up to 4 weeks for complex cases)
• Signs: install at least 72 hours before the zone takes effect (preferably 4 days in advance)

Note on short-notice applications: For applications with less than 14 days' lead time, there is a risk of a site inspection (48 EUR + 6 EUR travel costs), rejection, or additional express fees.

Costs for Your Move

Official fees:

• First moving day: 36 EUR
• Each additional day: 18 EUR
• External hoist: 14 EUR additional

Additional costs:

• Sign rental: approx. 30 to 50 EUR per sign
• Installation service (optional): approx. 20 to 40 EUR per sign

Example 1-day move:

• Official fee: 36 EUR
• Signs (2 pieces): 60 to 100 EUR
• Total: approx. 96 to 136 EUR

Example 2-day move:

• Official fee: 54 EUR
• Signs: 70 to 120 EUR
• Total: approx. 124 to 174 EUR

Checklist for Your Move

Follow this checklist for a smooth process:

3 weeks before the move:

• Set the moving date (date and times)
• Calculate the zone length (at least 15 metres for a truck)
• Download the application form or prepare an informal application
• Compile all required details
• Submit the application (online form or email)

After receiving the permit:

• Transfer the fee with the payment reference number (Kassenzeichen)
• Reserve and collect signs from a rental company

72 hours before the move (preferably 4 days):

• Install the signs
• Take photos for documentation
• Note any already parked vehicles (licence plates)

On moving day:

• Check that the zone is clear
• In case of illegally parked cars: contact the police or Public Order Office (Ordnungsamt)
• Carry out the move

After the move:

• Remove the signs
• Return signs to the rental company

Do It Yourself or Hire a Service Provider

Self-application:

• You submit the application yourself
• You organise the signs yourself
• Most affordable option: only official fee + sign rental
• Time investment and responsibility are on you

Service provider:

• Handles the entire process
• From application through signs to installation
• Cost: approx. 150 to 300 EUR complete package
• Municipal fees still apply on top

Note: Companies can offer express processing for an extra charge. Check whether the authority accepts this.

All information is provided without guarantee. Binding information is only available from the Public Order Office (Amt fuer oeffentliche Ordnung) Cologne.