Sidewalk parking in Saxony-Anhalt: towing now required!

Sidewalk parking in Saxony-Anhalt: towing now required!

The topic of sidewalk parking is causing debate in many cities. In Saxony-Anhalt, parking vehicles on sidewalks is partially tolerated, especially in large cities. According to the n-tv This is the case, for example, in Halberstadt, Dessau-Roßlau and Magdeburg. Halberstadt tolerates sidewalk parking up to a remaining sidewalk width of 1.30 meters, a far cry from the recommendations of the Research Society for Roads and Transport, which suggests a minimum width of 2.50 meters. The German Environmental Aid (DUH) describes this approach as anti-pedestrian and calls for consistent action against sidewalk parkers.

In contrast, Halle and Wittenberg are positive examples. Halle does not tolerate sidewalk parking at all, while Wittenberg punishes violations with warnings. This shows that things can be different when cities follow a clear line.

Legal situation and options for residents

Another important issue is the right of residents to examine the sidewalk situation. The Federal Administrative Court has ruled in favor of a plaintiff from Bremen who had sued the mobility and interior authorities. If parked cars significantly restrict the use of the sidewalk, municipalities must review this situation. However, what exactly “significantly restricted” means remains unclear. This check is limited to the area in front of the front door up to the next cross street.

Although there is no direct mandate for cities to act, they can prioritize their roads to address the most affected areas. The German Traffic Club and DUH are calling for road traffic regulations to be more strictly enforced to punish illegal sidewalk parking. Affected residents should also report violations and insist on punishment.

Regulations on sidewalk width

The road traffic regulations (StVO) are clear: sidewalk parking is only permitted if there is enough space for unhindered pedestrian traffic. According to the generally accepted rules of technology, the minimum sidewalk width should be 1.80 meters. The StVO amendment, which was passed in July 2024, addresses pedestrian traffic, people with disabilities and the issue of accessibility. Inquiries to the administration are aimed at clarifying the approach to illegal parking.

The administration's most recent answers explained that stationary traffic is checked regularly and that vehicles parked illegally usually face a fine of at least 55 euros. However, there is no statutory minimum width in the Road Traffic Act, which makes it difficult to implement the above guidelines everywhere. The administration is in favor of appropriate solutions that take into account legal requirements as well as traffic safety and the interests of local residents.