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:
- Submit an application to the road traffic authority
- Wait for the permit (Anordnung)
- Get the signs (rent or buy)
- Set up the signs (with the required lead time!)
- 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 |
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! |