Cologne
No-Stopping Zone Signs
Installation deadline, zone length and renting signs.
Responsible Authority
- Name
- Amt für öffentliche Ordnung
- Department
- Straßenverkehrs- und Ordnungsangelegenheiten
- Address
- Stadthaus Deutz, Willy-Brandt-Platz 3, 50679 Köln
- Phone
- 0221 / 221-26387
No-stopping zone signs in Cologne must be installed 72 hours before validity. It is better to install them 4 days beforehand. The Amt für öffentliche Ordnung only issues the permit. You organise the signs separately.
Installation deadline
Signs must be installed 72 hours before the no-stopping zone becomes valid. This gives residents enough time to move their vehicles.
Recommendation: Install the signs 4 days beforehand. This gives you a buffer in case something goes wrong.
Example: If your no-stopping zone starts on Saturday at 8:00 am, the signs must be in place by Wednesday at 8:00 am at the latest. With a 4-day buffer: install on Tuesday.
After the no-stopping zone: Signs must be removed after the work is completed. Do not leave them up longer than necessary.
Renting signs
The Amt für öffentliche Ordnung only issues the permit. You must organise the traffic signs separately.
Options:
- Sign rental companies in Cologne
- Traffic safety firms (Baustellenabsicherung)
- Moving companies with sign service
- Full-service providers (application + signs + installation)
Costs:
- Single sign: 30 to 50 EUR
- Installation service: 20 to 40 EUR per sign
- Complete package: from approx. 100 EUR
Cologne-specific rules
Installation on both sides: In narrow streets, the authority often requires signs on both sides. This means:
- Signs on both sides of the street
- More signs needed
- Higher costs
Minimum clearance widths: If emergency access routes are affected, you must expect stricter requirements. The review is then faster and more thorough.
Pedestrian zones: For no-stopping zones in pedestrian zones or restricted areas, separate special permits with stricter requirements apply.
Documentation
Good documentation protects you in case of problems.
Recommended:
- Photos of the installed signs
- Note the date and time of installation
- Document position and spacing
- Note licence plates of vehicles already parked
Why is this important?
- Proof in disputes with illegally parked drivers
- Protection during inspections by the public order office
- Documentation for potential towing measures
All information without guarantee. Only the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung Cologne can provide binding information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance must the signs be installed?
72 hours before validity, better to install 4 days beforehand.
How long must the zone be?
A 7.5-tonne truck needs approximately 15 metres. For a van, plan around 10 metres.
When is installation on both sides required?
In narrow streets, the authority often orders signs on both sides.
Where can I get the signs?
From sign rental companies or traffic safety firms. The office only issues the permit.
What happens with access issues?
For emergency routes or bottlenecks, stricter requirements and faster review apply.