Setting Up No-Stopping Signs: Rules and Tips

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Introduction

You got a permit for a temporary no-stopping zone -- for your move, a construction site, or a delivery. Now you need to set up the signs. But when? And how? Here are the most important rules.

Important: Permit First, Then Signs

You may NOT just set up no-stopping signs on your own!

Before placing any signs, you need a traffic regulation order (verkehrsrechtliche Anordnung) from the road traffic authority (Straßenverkehrsbehörde) of your district or city.

Here's the process:

1. Submit an application to the road traffic authority

2. Wait for the permit (Anordnung)

3. Get the signs (rent or buy)

4. Set up the signs (with the required lead time!)

5. Remove the signs once the permit expires

The 72-Hour Rule (Lead Time)

No-stopping signs must be set up at least 72 hours (3 full days) before the no-stopping zone takes effect.

This lead time gives drivers enough time to move their vehicles.

Example:

No-stopping zone starts: Monday, 8:00 AM
Signs must be up by: Friday, 8:00 AM at the latest

What happens with a shorter lead time?

Vehicles parked before the signs were placed may not be towed
The vehicle owner can reclaim towing costs
The no-stopping zone still applies -- but without the option to tow

How Must the Signs Be Placed?

Position

Clearly visible at the edge of the carriageway
At eye level (approx. 1.50--2.00 m)
Not obscured by trees, cars, or other objects

Spacing

At the start and end of the no-stopping zone
For longer stretches: a repeater sign every 25--50 meters (sign with double arrow)

Arrow direction

Start: Arrow points toward the carriageway (sign 283-10 / 286-10)
End: Arrow points away from the carriageway (sign 283-20 / 286-20)
Middle: Double arrow (sign 283-30 / 286-30)

Supplementary sign with date and time

Below the no-stopping sign, a supplementary sign must be attached showing:

- Date (start and end)

- Time (start and end)

- Example: "Mon 15.1., 8 AM -- Wed 17.1., 6 PM"

Documentation Is Important!

Photograph the signs immediately after setup!

Right after placing them
With a visible date (e.g., a newspaper in the photo or the camera's timestamp)
Location clearly identifiable (house number, street sign)

Why? If someone claims the signs were not there or were set up too late, you have proof.

Where Can I Get No-Stopping Signs?

Option 1: Rent

Many companies rent out no-stopping signs including setup and removal:

Moving companies
Sign rental services
Construction equipment suppliers

Cost: approx. €50--150 (depending on quantity and duration)

Option 2: Buy

Traffic signs are available from specialist retailers. Make sure they are StVO-compliant (reflective, correct size).

Cost: approx. €30--80 per sign

Option 3: Full service

Some providers handle everything: application, permit, setup, and removal.

Cost: approx. €150--300 total

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Consequence
Signs set up too late	Towing not possible
Signs poorly visible	Fines can be contested
Wrong date on supplementary sign	Confusion, disputes
Signs without a permit	Administrative offense!
Signs not removed	Can get expensive

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Setting Up Signs Without a Permit?

Forbidden! Placing no-stopping signs without a permit constitutes an administrative offense (Ordnungswidrigkeit). Possible consequences:

Fine
Signs will be removed
Removal costs charged to you
No legal basis for towing

Summary

What?	Rule
Lead time	At least 72 hours
Position	Clearly visible, at the edge of the carriageway
Spacing	Every 25--50 meters for longer stretches
Supplementary sign	Date + time
Documentation	Photos with timestamp
Without a permit	Forbidden!

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Sources

Last updated: 6. Januar 2026