Temporary No-Stopping Zone for Moving: Lead Time and Validity
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Introduction
You applied for a temporary no-stopping zone (mobiles Halteverbot) for your move. But when does it actually take effect? And when is towing allowed? The most important rule: the sign must be up at least 72 hours beforehand. Here you will find all the details.
The 72-Hour Rule
A temporary no-stopping zone only takes effect when the sign has been in place for at least 72 hours (3 full days) before the start of the restriction.This rule gives drivers enough time to move their vehicles.
Calculation Examples
| No-stopping starts | Signs must be up by |
|---|---|
| Monday, 8:00 AM | Friday, 8:00 AM |
| Saturday, 6:00 AM | Wednesday, 6:00 AM |
| Wednesday, 12:00 PM | Sunday, 12:00 PM |
What Happens with Shorter Lead Time?
If the sign is placed less than 72 hours before the restriction begins:
1. The no-stopping zone still applies -- from the stated time onward
2. Towing is not allowed for cars that were already parked there before the sign was placed
3. Towing costs can be reclaimed
Example:
- Sign placed: Saturday, 10:00 AM
- No-stopping begins: Monday, 8:00 AM
- Lead time: only 46 hours -- too short!
- Car has been parked there since Friday -- it cannot be towed
When Is Towing Allowed?
Towing is permitted when:
1. The no-stopping zone is valid (time period shown on the supplementary sign / Zusatzschild)
2. The sign has been up for at least 72 hours
3. The vehicle was parked after the sign was placed
Important: Vehicles parked before the sign was placed have grandfathering protection (Bestandsschutz) for 72 hours.When Does the No-Stopping Zone Begin Exactly?
The no-stopping zone begins at the time stated on the supplementary sign (Zusatzschild).
Example supplementary sign:> "Mon 20.1., 7:00 AM -- Tue 21.1., 8:00 PM"
- Start: Monday, January 20, 7:00 AM
- End: Tuesday, January 21, 8:00 PM
- After 8:00 PM on Tuesday: restriction lifted
Documentation: Protecting Yourself
As the Applicant (Moving / Construction):
- Photograph the sign immediately after setup
- Activate the timestamp or include a newspaper with the date in the photo
- Make the location recognizable (house number, street sign)
As a Driver:
- If your car was towed and you believe the sign was not up long enough:
- Request the protocol (when the sign was placed)
- Use your own photos as evidence
- Contest the costs if the lead time was too short
Special Case: Sign Is Moved or Removed
Sometimes signs are moved, knocked over, or stolen by third parties.
For the applicant:- Check the signs regularly
- Document their condition daily
- Report problems to the authority (Ordnungsamt) immediately
- If no sign was visible, you can contest fines and towing costs
- Photos of the parking spot (without a sign) are helpful as evidence
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 72-hour rule apply on weekends?
Yes. There is no exception for weekends or public holidays. 72 hours means 72 hours.What if I can only set up the sign on Thursday but am moving on Monday?
The no-stopping zone is valid from Monday, but towing is only possible for cars parked after Thursday. Better solution: set up the sign earlier!
Can I extend the no-stopping zone?
Yes, but you need a new permit or an extension from the authority. Simply changing the supplementary sign (Zusatzschild) is not sufficient.
What does it cost if I do not meet the 72-hour requirement?
For you as the applicant: nothing directly. But you cannot have cars towed that were already parked there before the sign went up -- which defeats the purpose of the no-stopping zone.
Summary
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Lead time | At least 72 hours |
| Start | As stated on the supplementary sign (date + time) |
| Towing | Only with correct lead time |
| Grandfathering protection | Cars parked before sign placement |
| Documentation | Photos with timestamp recommended |
Sources
Last updated: 14. Januar 2026