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Applying for a No-Stopping Zone: When Is a Zone Worth It?

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Introduction

Individual no-stopping signs or an entire zone? For larger areas — such as street festivals, construction sites, or moves with multiple trucks — a no-stopping zone (Halteverbotszone) can be far more practical. Here you will learn when a zone is worth it and how to apply for one.


What Is a No-Stopping Zone?

A no-stopping zone is a contiguous area where stopping restrictions apply — not just at a specific spot.

Signs 290.1 and 290.2

Sign 290.1 – Start of no-stopping zone
  • Sign 290.1 (Zeichen 290.1): Start of the zone (restricted no-stopping)
  • Sign 290.2 (Zeichen 290.2): End of the zone

Meaning: The entire area between the zone signs is a restricted no-stopping area — on all streets and squares within the zone. Note: Zones for absolute no-stopping also exist, but they are rare.

Zone vs. Individual Signs: What Is the Difference?

Individual signs (283/286)Zone (290.1/290.2)
CoverageOne side of a streetEntire area (all streets)
Number of signsMany (every 25–50 m)Few (only at zone edges)
EffortHigherLower
CostPer signFlat rate
Typical useIndividual parking spotsStreet festivals, large construction sites
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When Is a Zone Worth It?

A zone makes sense for:

  • Large areas (multiple streets, squares)
  • Street festivals and events
  • Major construction sites with many access points
  • Residential areas with complex street layouts

Individual signs make sense for:

  • A single move (just a few parking spots)
  • Short stretches (under 50 metres)
  • Temporary measures with a clear start and end point


How to Apply for a No-Stopping Zone

The application process is similar to applying for individual signs:

1. Application at the Road Traffic Authority (Strassenverkehrsbehorde)

  • Informal application or online form
  • Required details: area, time period, purpose, sketch

2. Required Information

  • Exact area: Which streets and squares should be included in the zone?
  • Time period: Start and end (date and time)
  • Purpose: Event, construction site, etc.
  • Site plan: Sketch or map with the zone marked

3. Wait for Approval

  • Processing time: approximately 2–4 weeks
  • For large events, apply well in advance!

4. Organise Signage

  • Zone signs at all entrances to the zone
  • If needed: additional information signs within the zone


Costs for a No-Stopping Zone

Costs vary depending on the city and the size of the zone:

ItemCost (approx.)
Administrative fee€30–100
Sign rental (zone)€50–150
Setup and removal€50–100
Total€100–350
Comparison: Individual signs covering the same area can cost more, because more signs are needed.

Rules Within the Zone

Within a no-stopping zone (sign 290.1), the following rules apply:

  • Restricted no-stopping on all public traffic areas
  • Stopping for up to 3 minutes is allowed
  • Parking is forbidden
  • Exceptions only with supplementary signs (e.g. resident parking permit / Bewohnerparkausweis)

Important: The zone applies to all streets within — including side streets and squares.

Can I Apply for a Zone for My Move?

In theory, yes, but in practice:
  • Authorities usually approve zones only for large-scale needs
  • For a normal move, individual signs are sufficient
  • Zones are intended for events and construction sites

Tip: Ask your local road traffic authority — sometimes a zone makes sense when multiple moves are happening at the same time.

Summary

QuestionAnswer
What is a zone?A contiguous area with no-stopping restrictions
Signs?290.1 (start), 290.2 (end)
When is it worth it?Large areas, events
Costs?€100–350 (often cheaper than many individual signs)
For a move?Possible, but individual signs are usually enough
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Sources


Image Sources (Public Domain)

SignDirect link
290.1SVG
290.2SVG

Last updated: 28. Dezember 2025